Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25
Music: Our God Is Here (Chris Muglia)
Do you hear what I hear? Do you see what I see? The seasonal sights and sounds associated with Christmas fill our hearts and our minds with memories, hopes, and expectations. The sounds of carols and the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill the air, for example, and remind us of the people and places that make this an extra special time of the year. The lighting of candles on an Advent wreath and the presence of live and stationary nativity scenes remind us that this is the time to prepare our hearts and our homes for the arrival of Immanuel – God with us.
Imagine the memories, hopes and expectations that filled Joseph’s heart and home each time the Holy family celebrated Jesus’ birthday. While we know very little about this righteous carpenter from Nazareth who accepted the divine invitation to serve as Jesus’ earthly father, we can rest assured that he never forgot the people and places associated with that first Holy night. A man of his word, Joseph chose to honor his commitment to Mary and the Christ child. As a result, he was blessed to witness the fulfillment of what God promised us through the prophet Isaiah (v. 23) centuries ago: The virgin will give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel – God with us.
While Christmas is right around the corner, let us remember that we are already in the holy presence of God. Like Joseph, each of us is called to demonstrate our commitment to Christ through our actions and the choices that we make. What will we do to prepare our hearts and our homes to welcome Jesus into our lives?
Prayer: God of all creation, we praise You for being with us through Your son, Jesus Christ. From age to age, you have remained faithful to us. And still, at times, we turn our backs on You. Strengthen our faith, Lord, by the power of Your love. Give us the courage necessary to prepare our homes and open our hearts to welcome Your son, Jesus. Amen