call:
The Lord be with you.
response:
And also with you.
call:
Today’s symbol shows a carpenter’s tools. Mary was betrothed to Joseph, who was a carpenter. Joseph became Jesus’ earthly father, and he loved and protected him as he grew. Joseph listened to God’s words, and he was not afraid.
response:
Thanks be to God!
Scripture reading : Matthew 1:18-25
The angel who came to Joseph in a dream said the same thing that Mary had heard: “Do not fear.” Joseph and Mary weren’t even married yet, and Joseph was going to get a son! And not just any son: the angel explained to Joseph that this son would be the Savior all of Israel was waiting for, the one who would bring the people back into God’s presence. The angel was asking Joseph to be a father to God’s Son, a father to a king and Savior. What an enormous job! No wonder the angel told him not to be afraid.
Joseph honored God, and obeyed. He was there with Mary when she gave birth in a stable, and he cared for the baby as his own. He continued to listen to God, and made sure that Jesus was safe when King Herod wanted to kill him. Joseph took Jesus to worship at the temple when he was older, and he taught him how to work as a carpenter. Because Joseph was not afraid, Jesus was protected and cared for as he grew.
pray:
God, you are kind and you protect us. Thank you for Joseph’s kindness to and protection of your Son, Jesus. Help us to obey like Joseph, not to be afraid, and to love everyone you give us who needs our care. Amen.