“The angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. . .
She will bear a son . . . and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’
When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.” Matthew 1:20-24

Can you imitate Joseph’s response to be not afraid of God’s nudges for you to move beyond your fears especially those fears, that keep you from believing in God, in Emmanuel and in all the good things that God has done for you and for others?

Be not afraid to trust that what will bring you true Joy and Happiness is cooperating with God to receive and share the Good News of Emmanuel, God With Us.  The more you overcome your fear of believing, the more your life will be filled with the true Joy of Christmas.

Sister Loretta Fernandez RSM