Christmas Eve

Morning: Baruch 4:36-5:9; Gal. 3:23-4:7; Matthew 1:18-25; 

Evening: Isaiah 59:15b-21; Phil. 2:5-11

So many people still think that feminists (that’s people who believe in women’s equality and worth) must hate men.  Au contraire, mes amis!  We love the men who are strong enough to welcome strong women.  We love the men whose strength includes compassion and care and humility.  We love men like Joseph.

Joseph is usually shown as old, more a grandfather to Jesus than a father, more father than husband to Mary.  This somehow downplays his masculinity and makes him safe for a culture that fears sex, but it doesn’t serve him or us.  Mary was engaged to him, and he had every reason to expect that they would have children together.  But not so soon.  Not before they were married, or had sex.  In their world, this pregnancy is a major affront to his honor.  He would be entitled to divorce and shame her publicly.  But he’s not that kind of guy.  He’s decent enough to just let her go quietly.  Still, it would be rough for both of them, when everyone knows everyone’s business.

But Joseph isn’t just decent.  He turns out to be a visionary.  He’s just who Jesus needs as a father.  As Jesus grows, Joseph will be able to tell him to trust his visions and his intuitions, to trust God.  Both his parents will be on board for the ride of a lifetime.  

I’m sure Joseph wasn’t looking for an exciting life when he became betrothed to Mary.  I’m sure he didn’t want to leave his home, or be pursued by soldiers, or be talked about by neighbors.  I’m sure he also taught Jesus about just doing the next thing, paying attention to the texture of a board and the state of his tools.  Paying attention let Joseph know what action was called for at each moment, and that knowledge kept Jesus safe until he was grown.

Now, you may have had a father like Joseph.  Or not.  Either way, that “paternal” energy is available to you through prayer and meditation.  Give thanks today for the protection and love you have received, whoever gave it.  Honor your visions, and pay attention to the daily.  And rejoice!