St. Joseph has been on my mind recently, nipping in and out of my prayer during this Advent season.

There has been a lot of change in our lives these last few months: upset plans, a new environment, new responsibilities. Joseph experienced all of these things as he tried to be faithful to his young fiancée in the tiny village of Nazareth.

One thing after another happened with angels and visions entering into the already-troubled story of an arduous journey, a pregnant spouse and, of course, no room in the inn.

Through it all, Joseph is portrayed as a young man with his feet solidly on the ground. He is there for Mary in the midst of this tumultuous period of their courtship and marriage arranging their travel plans, finding lodging, and coping with the birth of a baby who attracted visits from both shepherds and kings along with a chorus of angels.

Joseph listened. Joseph trusted. Joseph acted with wisdom and steadfastness.

Let’s ask Joseph to accompany us during those times when Jesus enters our life in unexpected ways, as an earthquake rather than a gentle breeze.

Sister Rosemary Fry

Please click here for more CSJ reflections.