Matthew 1:16, 18–21, 24
Jacob [was] the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah. Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife.
Reflection
• A great quality of Joseph was his silence. It was in his silence that he could be open and listen to God. Can I be like him to keep my mouth shut and open my ears most of the time?
• Joseph’s silence is a sign of true humility. He was defiant to gossips about his wife, his child and himself. Could I remain silence when other are gossiping about me or those whom I love?