DAY 13: Ponder the Mystery: A Contemplative Advent Journey

Her husband Joseph, a righteous man and unwilling to expose [Mary] to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 1:19-20

PONDER: Joseph doesn’t get nearly as much attention in the Christmas story as Mary, or even the Shepherds, but when we first meet Joseph, we know he is righteous, meaning he is in a relationship with God. We see he is full of mercy, even in his own human plans and problems. And we see he is open and willing to set aside his own plans to yield to the greater Divine ways.

RESPOND: As you consider the plans Joseph had made, take a few minutes to consider all that you have planned for your day, or the week, or even your life. Sit with your hands open, allowing the thoughts of these plans, or the worries you may have assigned to them, or the decisions you must make, to rest lightly in the center of your palms and offer them to God. As you sift through all these ideas and decisions, notice any resistance or fear rising in you… and hear the words spoken to Joseph, “Do not be afraid.” Let those words cover your plans or your worries with the holy reassurance that all is held and kept safe in the Divine presence. Do not be afraid.

A BLESSING: May the peace of God flow through your life, minute by minute. May your ways be blessed by the good intentions and delight from God upon you all the days of your life. Amen.