Joseph shows us the importance of listening to the voice of God. He was a man of honour who sought to live in accord with his Jewish upbringing and in relationship with his betrothed, Mary. The Annunciation and Mary's yes to the angel raised questions in his mind and heart. The central question seems to be how he could be faithful to both God and Mary. This would have caused him some sleepless nights about how to show his love for both without being untrue to what he knew to be right.
This is where Joseph is a person who can pray with us when we face difficult choices. In the midst of his dilemma, he opened his heart to God and, in a dream, was prompted to be faithful to God by taking Mary home as his wife. This is at the heart of our prayer whenever we feel fearful. God works with us so that our prayer guides us to reflect on what is the next obvious step.
As we approach Christmas, we may have many things on our minds and hearts. There is hope that all things will turn out for the good and that we will have a peaceful time. May any of our sleepless nights be calmed by God, who shows us the way to be faithful in our daily lives.
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