Matthew 1:24-25
24 When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife 25 but had no marital relations with her until she had given birth to a son, and he named him Jesus.
Saturday, December 13 - Week of Peace
When Joseph awoke, he simply did as the angel of the Lord requested. Through submission, the story of Jesus’ birth commenced.
As Easter people, following our faith that rests on the Risen Christ, we sometimes forget that we know the whole story. We can take for granted the intricacies of the stories of our faith and just bounce from story to story, to story, believing we know the lessons and purposes within. However, slowing down and consuming these stories in little pieces at a time encourages us to savor every morsel, like a meal we have been anticipating. Joseph’s story is just that - a small part of the greater story of our faith, and one that reminds us that God’s Peace can assure even the most frightened that all will be okay.
Mary and Joseph became Jesus’ earthly parents when he was born into the world. However, we know the whole story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. As we slow down and allow one of the bookends of Jesus’ life to unfold before us this year, may we draw closer to God and appreciate more the gift of God’s own self born to us in a manger.
Prayer: God of all things, thank you for including us in the great story of salvation. While we recognize this gift, help us tell the story of your great love. Amen.
