The Dream

Now the generation of Christ was in this wise. When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child, of the Holy Ghost. Whereupon Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing publicly to expose her, was minded to put her away privately. But while he thought on these things, behold the angel of the Lord appeared to him in his sleep, saying: Joseph, son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife, for that which is conceived in her, is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son: and thou shalt call his name JESUS. For he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done that it might be fulfilled which the Lord spoke by the prophet, saying: Behold a virgin shall be with child, and bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. And Joseph rising up from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him, and took unto him his wife. And he knew her not till she brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
Matthew 1:18-25 (Douay-Rheims Bible)

Prayer Reflection

Dear Father you work in wonderful and mysterious ways. You gave Joseph to Mary to be her human spouse and to be the human dad to Jesus. You let him know of your desire through a dream of revelation for the coming birth of your Son. A great task was given this humble man. Dear Father we often don't see very well your grace in our own lives, but you have given us two special people that guide us on our journey to you. Through them we come to believe in the divine nature of how you brought forth your Son. May we come to truly understand this blessing you bestowed on us. Amen