As Advent draws to its close, Matthew’s Gospel invites us to contemplate the story of Joseph — a quiet, faithful man whose obedience allowed God’s plan of salvation to unfold. In this passage, we hear how Joseph discovers that Mary, his betrothed, is with child. His initial reaction is one of deep distress; he is torn between the law and his love for Mary. Yet even in his confusion, Joseph acts with compassion. He resolves to do what is right without exposing Mary to shame. It is then, in the midst of his uncertainty, that God speaks to him through a dream.
The angel’s message — “Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” — changes everything. Joseph is invited to see beyond appearances and to trust in something far greater than his understanding. In faith, he accepts his role in God’s mystery, becoming the earthly guardian of the Christ Child. Through his quiet courage, God’s Word takes flesh in our world.
Joseph’s story is a powerful reminder that God often works in hidden and unexpected ways. Like Joseph, we can face moments when life does not make sense, when plans collapse, and the future feels uncertain. In those times, faith means listening for the whisper of God’s voice — often in the silence of prayer — and finding the courage to respond with trust.
The Fourth Sunday of Advent invites us to enter into that same faith-filled waiting. As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, we are called to let go of fear and to make room in our hearts for Emmanuel — “God with us.” Joseph’s obedience shows us that holiness is found not in grand gestures, but in quiet fidelity to God’s will.
When we, like Joseph, open ourselves to the mystery of God’s presence in our ordinary lives, the promise of Advent is fulfilled: God comes to dwell among us, and through our trust, His love takes flesh once again in the world.
Fr Stephen Berecz
