Hear the word of the Lord, O nations; declare it to the distant lands: Behold, our Savior will come; you need no longer fear.
Hi Everybody, Bishop Callahan here with a few words as we enter into the season of Advent.
Advent is a time when we pay particular attention to the way in which the first coming of the Son of God occurred. The readings leading up to the birth of the Christ Child contain many prophetic details, and give us so many reasons to believe that God really did become man.
Jesus was born into a human family; Mary is His mother and St. Joseph, the father given to Him here on earth. This year we have been studying St. Joseph, and his role in Salvation History. St. Joseph bears many titles, most notably “Pillar of Families.” It was St. Joseph who provided for Mary, well before Jesus was born. It was St. Joseph who trusted the message of the angel, despite the uncertainties involved. And it was St. Joseph who protected Jesus and Mary, nurturing and caring for Jesus and watching over Him as he grew.
It is fitting for us to conclude this year, dedicated to St. Joseph, on December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Joseph loves Mary and together their love surrounded Jesus throughout this time here on earth. Joseph is a model for all men, he is a model for all husbands and he is a model for all fathers. His examples and mighty deeds, his justice and integrity lead us to become better followers of God and better believers in Jesus.
This Advent, take time to ponder what it must have been like for St. Joseph as he waited for the birth of Jesus.
Keep close to St. Joseph despite the many tempting reasons to doubt; pray through his intercession for the gift of fortitude to stay firm in your Faith. Make this Advent a time of preparation and be ready, as St. Joseph was, to welcome Jesus into your heart and home in a new and powerful way. And may this Advent season fill you with a sense of wonder and stir up your desire for Heavenly Joy.
Blessed Advent to you; St. Joseph fill our hearts with your love of Jesus.