We are still a week away from Christmas, but today we hear from Matthew’s Gospel about Jesus’ birth. This will be the same Gospel reading that we will hear this upcoming Sunday about Joseph and his journey just prior to the birth of Jesus. Joseph was surprised to hear about the upcoming birth, since he and Mary had not yet had relations and was betrothed to get married. So often around this time of the year, we hear a lot about Mary, but today the emphasis is on Joseph. The angel come to Joseph in a dream, giving him instructions as to what he must do. Joseph follows exactly what the angel tells him to do. Joseph discerned God’s will for him, but the path that God had chosen for him was certainly not the easiest path. God gave Joseph a message of encouragement during this difficult part of his journey. Fortunately, Joseph was willing to respond to this encouragement in a positive, constructive way. Joseph had already made up his mind as to what needed to do, but he was willing to change his mind according to the will of God.
I think of the sleeping St Joseph image that Pope Francis likes so much. Pope Francis said that someone gave him this statue of a sleeping St Joseph and whenever he has any problems or petitions, he would put notes under the statue so that St Joseph would dream about them on his sleep. This statue of sleeping St Joseph ties into the Gospel message we hear today. I would like to end my homily with a prayer to sleeping St Joseph:
O Saint Joseph, you are a man greatly favored by the Most High. The angel of the Lord appeared to you in dreams, while you slept, to warn you and guide you as you cared for the Holy Family. You were both silent and strong, a loyal and courageous protector. Dear Saint Joseph, as you rest in the Lord, confident of his absolute power and goodness, look upon me. Please take my need into your heart, dream of it, and present it to your Son. Help me then, good Saint Joseph, to hear the voice of God, to arise, and act with love. I praise and thank God with joy. Amen.
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