Gospel: Matthew 1: 18-24
Joseph is the first to hear the message that runs throughout the Gospels: do not be afraid. If the incarnation of Jesus were to be summarized by one phrase, it is that - do not be afraid. For we have God among us, God who pitched his tent among us - and if we have that, what can we possibly fear? The Gospel is the ever continual reminder that God is present among us at all times and all places - the God who is love, and if love then there is no room for fear.
Joseph has a lot to fear: the religious authorities would heap shame and derision on him and Mary. The worldly rulers already seek the life of the child and he must live as a refugee in a foreign place for a time. He has a poor life and future to look forward to in Nazareth. The world is full of fearful things that threaten, especially for the poor and marginalized as Joseph finds his lot.
Today, what was spoken to Joseph is spoken to us as well. Do not be afraid. God is in our midst, dwelling within and among us. Yes, the world has much that is fearful. Its institutions of religion and power threaten the poor and marginalized in our own day too. But we have the God of love among and within us, a perfect love that casts out all fear, and God will provide for us as he did for Joseph.
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