ChristmasReading2022A - Flipbook - Page 47
DAY Twenty-Two: December 19 - Monday
That is the heart of the man God chose to be the earthly father of His
Son. All this transpires before the angel comes to him in a dream. He
did not dismiss it. He knew when God was speaking to him and he
chose to cooperate. Because of an emperor’s order, he takes his
pregnant wife to an overcrowded village on the outskirts of Jerusalem,
is confronted with the threatening paranoia of a more local ruler, and
leaves his homeland un l told to return. Today, the world is di erent
and Joseph played a part in that. As Acher Niyonizgiye writes: “It is the
spirituality of Joseph, beau fully mingling with the hardships he faced
that make his story one of hope.” Ours, too.
Thank you, Joseph, for your astounding trust in God.
❅FOR CONTEMPLATION:
Hebrews 11:13-16; Luke 18:15-17
❅FOR REFLECTION:
What does Jesus mean when He teaches us to enter the Kingdom of
God as a li le child?
What does the life of Joseph (what we know of it) teach us about
receiving the kingdom of God like a child?
What stands out most to you about the life of Joseph? Why?
❅FOR PRAYER (ONE-MINUTE):
“Father, may I be open and obedient to Your will and working in the
world. May I trust your wisdom. May I always trust Your ways.” (pause)
“Conquer my fears. Strengthen me in my weakness. Overcome my
inadequacies. Increase my fa h.” (pause)
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“Build trust in me as You open my eyes to Your presence and work in
the world. I pray to hear your voice. To this end I pray in Jesus’ name,
Amen.” (pause)