For Sunday
Advent 4A
Collect
Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
Reading
Reflection
Considering how big a deal the birth of Jesus is to our faith, it is hilarious how low-key it is depicted in the Gospel of Matthew. It is simply something that happens, a dependent clause near the end. In fact, it is written entirely in relationship to Mary, to Joseph’s relationship to her, and the consequences of his choosing to remain with her.
He has a dream, follows it, marries Mary, but doesn’t sleep with her until she gives birth to Jesus.
There is no small amount of interest in Joseph, particularly as he is given a particular part to play in this telling of the story. Interest that is enhanced by just how much this version is directly about him.
We might choose, as we often do this time of year, to consider the matter of agency — that Joseph and Mary each say yes to the angel’s offer (Joseph in Matthew and Mary in Luke) — which provide a way into the wider story for us. They had a choice — and so do we. A choice to let the light of Christ into our hearts and be changed.
The place of change and choice in Christian practice is often treated as the living out of belief, which of course it is, most profoundly in the sacraments. But let us consider it more organically, as a response to relationship — as in our relationship with God. And what defines relationships but the regular participation of its members. The choices we make with someone else, or for them; on behalf of them. The choice to love in particular ways, with gifts, kindness, or attention, perhaps.
When we consider faith as an active participatory relationship with God, the example of the choices made by Joseph and Mary reflect the choices we receive on a regular basis to participate in the wider Jesus Event, to accept the burden and joy of loving our neighbors, seem easier. And yet, no less holy.