From the responsorial psalm: “He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God, the Rock, my savior.’ “Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him, and my covenant with him stands firm. The son of David will live for ever.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a)
Joseph’s intention, Matthew tells us, was to divorce Mary quietly because he was unwilling to expose her to shame. A righteous man with this intention, Joseph was open to hearing the voice of God. And he did, in a dream, through the voice of an angel. Although Joseph doesn’t say a word here, we know his intentions are rooted in mercy. Because of that, he is able to hear the Lord and receive guidance from him to do his will. Remaining close to Jesus even before he was born, hearing the angel speak his name, Joseph is an example for all who desire to hear God’s voice.
God, help me take in and remember the story of Joseph throughout the day. Unwilling to expose Mary to shame and out of compassion, he chose and intended to do what he thought was the best course of action. Help me see the example he sets in being pure and in willingly choosing to act mercifully. When I am faced with that choice, give me the grace to be kind and merciful, opening up further to you. “I will be a father to him,” you say to David through the prophet Nathan, “and he shall be a son to me.” Lord, teach me to be a means of your kindness and mercy. Saint Joseph, pray for us!