Model Man
December 18
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Matthew 1:18-24 - This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." 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.
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream…”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
Joseph is a model man for us at all times, but particularly in the days leading up to the Coming of the Lord. It is notable enough that he is a just man, doing quietly what he should in each situation. But his virtue goes beyond justice, to sensitive generosity, when looks not only to what is lawful for himself, but also what is best for Mary, being found pregnant and not married. Joseph doesn’t simply react with force; he considers, and acts with gentleness. He considers himself. He considers the other(s) involved. He considers Mary. He considers God. Only then does he decide.
We might be tempted to think that it is simply miraculous that an angel appears to Joseph – and certainly it is. (The Coming of the Lord is fully God’s act.) But we would miss something very important if we didn’t take notice of Joseph’s preparedness to receive the miracle. He is virtuous and thoughtful, and that is the best he can do in his power. But he is also open – open to God’s power working beyond his limits. It seems his thoughtfulness is actually a thoughtfulness of prayer. He is not simply seeking what is smart, or even simply what is good, but is seeking what God wills. So when the angel appears to Joseph and changes Joseph’s plan, saying, “do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home… When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him.” If we wish to hear God’s will, or receive miracles, or be prepared for His Coming… let us also consider ourselves, others, Mary, and God. And then let us be prayerfully open to whatever wonders God gifts to us… especially His Son.
As a family, pray a portion of the Rosary together (very short if children are young) reflecting on the Scripture passage above. (Optional: allow a brief time for discussion or questions from children concerning their thoughts and prayer.)
