Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Joseph - A man of Higher Justice
St. Matthew 1: 18-23Annunciation to Joseph
In the Gospel according to Matthew, Christ’s birth begins with Joseph, unlike Luke’s. Joseph is a silent character in the Bible who never said a word but always did the right thing. As we say, a man of few words, Joseph was a perfect example of the saying that actions speak louder than words. It is significant that Joseph was already in the canvas of God. God did not view Joseph as an inconvenience. Christ is given not only to Mary, but to Joseph also. Joseph becomes part of history.
*Joseph one who teaches the beauty of silence, listening, obedience, and true righteousness.*
Joseph was afraid and confused when he learned that Mary, to whom he had been betrothed, was pregnant before marriage. Joseph faced a difficult dilemma. But he did not divorce Mary. Joseph behaves with calmness and self-control in the midst of men who see such a situation as a heavy blow to their masculinity. The angel addressing him says, “Joseph, son of David, do not hesitate to take Mary as your wife. That which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.”
He saw no angel like Mary with open eyes. He never saw the burning bush, nor heard God’s voice,” I am.” He heard God in his dream while sleeping. He accepted it and obeyed. Joseph teaches us the beauty of silence, listening, obedience, and true righteousness. Joseph’s and Mary’s life is called to be a part of the birth of Christ, God’s plan and dream for the whole universe.
God has chosen each one of us for a mission in this world. No one is born into this world without a purpose, a mission or a calling. Through the inspiration of the characters we meet in the Christ event, we can discover our true calling from God.
*Joseph is one who exchanged his own dream with the great dream of God*
Joseph was willing to change his dream to become part of God’s great dream for the whole world. Joseph’s righteousness is what he was able to go beyond his own world. He understood the meaning of his life beyond himself. He was able to transcend his own needs, his own desires, his own ambitions and connect them with the great mission that God had in store for him.
God invites us out of our own little world into His dream for a greater purpose beyond our own ambitions, plans, and desires. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us be like Joseph in welcoming the birth of Jesus in our lives, in our world.
*Joseph one who teaches the beauty of silence, listening, obedience, and true righteousness.*
Joseph was afraid and confused when he learned that Mary, to whom he had been betrothed, was pregnant before marriage. Joseph faced a difficult dilemma. But he did not divorce Mary. Joseph behaves with calmness and self-control in the midst of men who see such a situation as a heavy blow to their masculinity. The angel addressing him says, “Joseph, son of David, do not hesitate to take Mary as your wife. That which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.”
He saw no angel like Mary with open eyes. He never saw the burning bush, nor heard God’s voice,” I am.” He heard God in his dream while sleeping. He accepted it and obeyed. Joseph teaches us the beauty of silence, listening, obedience, and true righteousness. Joseph’s and Mary’s life is called to be a part of the birth of Christ, God’s plan and dream for the whole universe.
God has chosen each one of us for a mission in this world. No one is born into this world without a purpose, a mission or a calling. Through the inspiration of the characters we meet in the Christ event, we can discover our true calling from God.
*Joseph is one who exchanged his own dream with the great dream of God*
Joseph was willing to change his dream to become part of God’s great dream for the whole world. Joseph’s righteousness is what he was able to go beyond his own world. He understood the meaning of his life beyond himself. He was able to transcend his own needs, his own desires, his own ambitions and connect them with the great mission that God had in store for him.
God invites us out of our own little world into His dream for a greater purpose beyond our own ambitions, plans, and desires. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us be like Joseph in welcoming the birth of Jesus in our lives, in our world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Teach us how to be more loving, patient and compassionate to others. Show us how to be like Mary and Joseph as they accept and follow your plans. Help us discern and serve our purpose and trust Your plans as we give all the praises and glory to You. This we pray, in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ. Amen
Rev.Thomas P Koshy
Ranni Nazareth MTC