Friday of the Third Week of Advent
Today’s gospel reading serves as reflection of Mary’s yes heard at the Annunciation. Although Joseph does not speak in the Gospel of Matthew, hence the sobriquet “quiet Joseph,” he does hear and respond to the will of God. Both Mary in Luke’s gospel and Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew hear the request of God and are obedient to this request. Although no doubt special graces were given, we may assume that a lot of courage and faith were required in both their responses. The story of Joseph hearing God’s word follows yesterday’s reading of the genealogy of Jesus, a long list of men and women starting with Abraham, our father in Faith. The genealogy reminds those familiar with the history of Israel that God has been faithful and will continue to be so in the future.