God is with us

   

  Fourth Sunday of Advent 

18 December 2022 

 

First Reading: Is 7:10-14

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

Second Reading: Rom 1:1-7

Gospel: Mt 1:18-24

 

Reflection

By: Stephanie Navarro

 

In this Gospel, Joseph was visited by an angel in his dream. This all happened on the day he was about to divorce Mary. Joseph is someone faithful to the law, he didn't want Mary to be shamed. As he listens to the angel, Joseph accepts Jesus as his son. After his dream, he woke up and did what the Lord commanded him to do.

In life, there will be times wherein we'll make irrational actions, decisions or even thoughts. During these times we are challenged and tested by God. That in times like these we should have faith in Him. We should believe in Him. Not just in trying times but the good times and the bad ones as well. By putting our trust in Him, we let Him lead the way to a much more fruitful and meaningful path of life. As we follow Him, we are enlightened.

At moments we are hesitant and in doubt, we should always remember that God is with us. Remember that God will always provide. He is someone that won't leave us hanging.

There would be times that we would ask something from Him and He won't give it to us. That's what we think. God gives us more than our wants and needs. When we feel like He isn't giving us what we asked for, why don't we look around and think things thoroughly?

God might have planned something greater. He might have given us something greater but we don't see it because we are blinded by the thought of getting what we exactly want. Or maybe He thinks that now is the right moment just like what people say, "In God's perfect timing." He has His own plans for us, He knows what's best for us and for our futures.

In the Gospel, the name "Emmanuel" was also mentioned; it means "God is with us." With Jesus being sent to us to save us from our sins, he becomes a bridge. A bridge between us and God. He is the connecting path towards the light of the Lord.

Brothers and sisters, as we read this passage; may we realize that God is always with us. As children of God, we should put our trust and faith in Him and let Him lead the way of life. At moments of hesitation and in doubt, let us trust Him. He never takes His eyes off us and always watches over us. We are sent signs like: people, experiences and lessons to be able to see what God is commanding us to do. Let us be like Joseph and follow what God has set for us, for it is what's best and it is what will save us.

Prayer

Dearest Father, You have sent an angel to St. Joseph to guide him in his decisions. We, too, believe that you sent us angels daily to guide us in our everyday tasks. May we always trust You and abide Your will. Amen.