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Today we celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent. In the three weeks leading up to today many of us have worked hard to prepare for Christmas. The cards are sent. The decorations are up. Hopefully, most of the shopping is finished. The gifts are wrapped and under the tree or stored in a safe place. Now it's time to stop and reflect on what we are celebrating. We are celebrating God's incredible gift to us - the gift of His son, Jesus who came to "save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). We are celebrating the birth of Emmanuel - God is with us.
The Gospel for today and for the Christmas Vigil Mass, Matthew 1: 18-24, focuses our attention on St. Joseph. The birth of Jesus posed a serious problem for Joseph. Although he was betrothed to Mary, they were not officially married. Joseph must have felt very hurt and betrayed when he discovered that Mary was pregnant with a child that was not his. He could have divorced her, an act that would destroy her life and possibly the life of the child. But he didn't. Joseph listened to God and did what was just and honorable. He took Mary and the baby Jesus into his home and into his heart. Joseph trusted God and God entrusted His son to Joseph.
Joseph is our very human model of faith, compassion and mercy. He also is the perfect example of a strong and caring parent. Joseph protected Jesus from the murderous wrath of Herod. He provided a safe and secure home in which Jesus could grow and develop. Most importantly, Joseph was responsive to the Spirit of God. In these last few days before Christmas, please take some time to reflect on St. Joseph. And remember that all of us are called to be like Joseph. We are called to make room for Jesus in our hearts, in our spirits, in our homes and in our community. We are called to welcome Emmanuel, God is with us right here in Peachtree City
Eternal God,
in the psalms of David,
in the words of the prophets,
in the dream of Joseph
your promise is spoken.
At last, in the womb of the Virgin Mary,
your Word takes flesh.
Teach us to welcome Jesus, the promised Emmanuel,
and to preach the good news of his coming,
that every age may know him
as the source of redemption and grace.
Grant this through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever.
in the psalms of David,
in the words of the prophets,
in the dream of Joseph
your promise is spoken.
At last, in the womb of the Virgin Mary,
your Word takes flesh.
Teach us to welcome Jesus, the promised Emmanuel,
and to preach the good news of his coming,
that every age may know him
as the source of redemption and grace.
Grant this through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever.
AMEN.
