3/20/2023 (Sunday) Today’s gospel reading: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24A

16 Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.
18 Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.
19 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.
20 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.
21 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
24 When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.

3/20/2023 (Sunday) Today’s gospel reflection: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24A

The gospel above shows us Joseph, a righteous man, who needs to decide whether to protect his reputation or push through with a previous marriage arrangement. It was a painful moment for him. At first, he intended to take care first of himself and leave Mary alone with the child in her womb. However, before he could make any move, God intervened. Joseph listened, obeyed God’s will and the history of salvation unfolded. Oftentimes, one man’s decision has a universal repercussion.

Indeed, there are moments in our life when we are faced with making a decision that will not only change the course of our life but will also impact heavily on the life of another person. Those are moments when we feel most confused. Some people take real time before taking any action yet others rush into decision without weighing the options or the pros and cons of every option.

May the gospel story above inspires us to be careful in making decisions. It shows us that God do care for us. At the time when we are confused and do not know the right decision, may we remember to seek divine intervention. Through prayer and meditation, God will show us the way.