Matthew 1:24 NRSVue
24When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife
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Further reflection
The humility of Joseph was not something weak or wilting. He followed the word of the Lord and became Mary's husband. I allow the richness of that word to show me how Joseph was a disciple and see what I might learn from him.
Attending to his dreams, Joseph took care not to ignore where God was communicating with him. As I look to God for meaning, I allow answers and encouragement that I may have heedlessly overlooked come to my attention.
Pictures of the Holy Family look peaceful. Let us remember the heart-breaking crisis they faced in this incident. Quiet, loving Joseph faces the awful questions: /Has Mary been unfaithful? Who is the father? Should I divorce her? What will happen to the child? How can I save her from notoriety?/ He does not panic, but prays, and moves in some bewilderment into a life he had never expected.
The humility of Joseph was not something weak or wilting. He followed the word of the Lord and became Mary's husband. I allow the richness of that word to show me how Joseph was a disciple and see what I might learn from him.
Attending to his dreams, Joseph took care not to ignore where God was communicating with him. As I look to God for meaning, I allow answers and encouragement that I may have heedlessly overlooked come to my attention.