This Sunday the focus of the Gospel is Joseph and his faithfulness. Not so many years ago, Pope Benedict XVI asked that Saint Joseph be added to the Eucharistic Prayers of the Mass that did not already mention the foster father of Jesus. Popes get to do things like that for the good of the faithful, and I was glad that the Holy Father included Joseph, “a righteous man,” in that most important prayer at the altar. When we hear Joseph’s name, we should think of one (like Mary) who said “yes” to God.
We are all a part of the story that God is writing every day, but certain holy ones are writ large – even the humblest. Certainly, Joseph is one of those who, because of his faithfulness to God and willingness to do great things for God, is revered, honored, and raised to sainthood. He says nothing in the Gospels, but he does everything God wants him to do, even though some of it cuts against the grain of his understanding of Jewish Law. As a guardian and provider, Joseph is attentive to his little family and his God. His dreams with messages from angels are taken seriously and bring him to surprising circumstances and places. His silent assent to all that God has planned for him is a powerful reminder to us that we should never fear God’s exquisite plan for each one of us.
I pray in thanksgiving for the gift of all of you, and I am honored to be a small part of your story of faith. May this Christmas be a time of joy, peace, and deeper faith for you and those you love.
Merry Christmas!
