Third Friday of Advent

"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,’ which means ‘God is with us.’ When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.” Matthew 1:22-24

Reflection: Joseph knows that the child is not his by the natural order. But when the angel tells him of God’s plan, Joseph brings Mary and the Lord into his house, which by the ancient law made them instantly members of his “house”, the line of David. Prayer: God our Father, take away every one of our fears. Give us the confidence you gave to Saint Joseph by the message of the angel, and remove all of our doubt. Amen.