Joseph reveals something essential about faith on this Fourth Sunday of Advent. He is confronted with a confusing and unexpected situation that could damage his reputation, yet Scripture calls him “righteous” because he allowed his heart to enter into God’s plan.
Joseph receives Mary as a mission entrusted to him. His response is not passive; it is courageous participation. Despite its cost, he embraces God’s will and accepts his dutiful role in nurturing the life that did not originate with him, protecting the Son that God was bringing into the world. In his righteousness, Joseph demonstrates paternal tenderness and responsibility by participating in God’s work.
For us, Advent now reaches its deepest invitation. Just as God called Joseph to embrace His will, we, too, are being called to allow God to reshape our interior worlds so that we can carry what He entrusts to us. Sometimes, that means making space for a person who needs support. Other times, it may involve welcoming a new direction, a change we did not foresee, or a responsibility that stretches us, making us wonder: Why is this mission being given to me?
Because God took flesh in the Incarnation of His Son in Mary’s womb, every person carries dignity. Everyone’s story has human and divine dignity because the Word became life among us. When Joseph took Mary into his life, he surrendered his plans to allow God to fulfill His plan of human redemption.
This final week of Advent, we can ask ourselves: What or who has God given me to care for?
