It is all about expectation. For centuries, the Jewish people had had prophets speaking in all sorts of ways and images about the one who is to come. Jeremiah adds to this beautiful narrative, “I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.” (Jeremiah 23:5)  How the people longed for that day and for that coming.

But the revealing of God’s presence among us is not always clear. It is not announced by a trumpet blast, flashing lights and town criers on the street corners. We become aware of God’s presence through the humble and open heart, the eyes that seek and the ears that listen beyond to the voice within.

This is what Joseph gifts us with in today’s Gospel. Joseph is a “righteous man” who is ever attentive to Mary’s needs. He had every excuse to shame her, but he chose not to. Joseph is a man of prayer. He has a discerning heart. Our dreams often reflect our psyche and the events of our day to day lives. Joseph’s dream could have been about revenge or self-pity. But no, mysteriously, it invites Joseph into an ever-deeper trust in the action of God through him and his betrothed.

Does it make sense? No! Is it easy? No! But Joseph senses her dignity and journey. Joseph senses that there is an energy of love beyond him at work. He trusts. He believes. He reaches out with one hand and allows his God to take it. He reaches out with his other hand and takes Mary’s and walks beside her.

by Br Damien Price cfc