http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122219.cfm (Gospel)
Bottom Line
What should the older brother hear?
St. Joseph had a big problem on his hands – a scandal, something that would get people talking, and not in a good way.
There is an old saying “If you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans.” Indeed, we take pride in well-planned lives – we take planning for the future very seriously. But unless our hearts mirror St. Joseph’s, even our best plans will fail.
What are St. Joseph’s heroic virtues? Humility, trust, faithfulness, chastity to name a few. These virtues anchored him through the mess that his life became in an instant. Which of these can you adopt today?
What should the younger brother hear?
The world wants you to satisfy yourself – your belly, your lust, your every desire. God wants you to be the best version of you, and that means the opposite – a life lived for others and not yourself.
St. Joseph’s world was shattered at the news that Mary was pregnant. But this hero of virtue chose to put the needs of Mary, Jesus and God ahead of his own. He trusted God with his whole heart – and even though he must have been terrified of what others would say, of breaking the law, or even of shaming his own family, he put God’s will above his own.
God sets the bar pretty high with St. Joseph, but he’s calling you to be like him! No matter the size and scope of the mess you find yourself in, a heart that is rooted in the virtues of faith, humility, love, generosity and purity will always come out strong in the end.
Action Item / Challenge
Men: Join Exodus 90 starting January 12! Women: Encourage your man to do Exodus 90!
Questions
Repeat the bottom line
Your Mess + God = Your Message
