While being betrothed to the Blessed Mother, St. Joseph received news that she was with child through the Holy Spirit. His plans, his future, would have collapsed. The Word of God says that Joseph was a righteous man with a right relationship with God. Thus, in the midst of the crisis, instead of reacting immediately, he lifts his mind to God: to divorce her quietly without disgracing her publicly. God speaks to him through a dream, and by obeying God, Joseph becomes part of the fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation. In life, we too may face tragic and unexpected situations. Our plans, hopes, and expectations can disappear in a moment. How do we respond? To whom do we turn? St. Joseph shows us the way: the pain, suffering, shame, and rejection we face in life can become pathways into realizing God’s perfect plan: to save us and the lives of many others; when we believe in him and obey him even in simple ways in our day-to-day lives.

Abba Father, I thank you for your love and faithfulness, you are my rock, my savior, my father and my all. Amen.