The Virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son

Gospel

Matthew 1:18-23

How Jesus Christ came to be born

This is how Jesus Christ came to be born. His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph; but before they came to live together she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph; being a man of honour and wanting to spare her publicity, decided to divorce her informally. He had made up his mind to do this when the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because she has conceived what is in her by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you must name him Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins.’ Now all this took place to fulfil the words spoken by the Lord through the prophet:

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son

and they will call him Emmanuel,

a name which means ‘God-is-with-us.’

Reflection

God’s presence with us often comes in unexpected ways, inviting us to trust His divine plan even when situations seem uncertain or difficult. Like Joseph, we are called to respond in faith and obedience, embracing God's purpose with courage and hope.

Question for Reflection

How can I trust and embrace God’s plan in my life, especially when it seems unclear or challenging?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being “God with us.” Help me to trust Your plan for my life, even when I do not fully understand it. Give me the courage to follow You faithfully, just as Joseph did, and to welcome Your presence in every circumstance. Amen.

Comments

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