Loving in the Threshold
Such was his intention when behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid…” - Mt 1:18-24
The fourth candle of Advent is called the "Angel Candle" and symbolizes peace. This week, we are reminded that Jesus came to bring peace to our hearts, and we are invited to take our most deepfelt concerns to the Lord in trust. In today's gospel, Joseph takes this journey of faith that competes with his logical and practical mind. Joseph had a plan that came from a good place inside of him. He chose to be kind and sensitive towards Mary and not to expose her to shame. However, it was still a plan that came from looking at the situation from a human perspective. In his grief and turmoil, God sends an angel to calm his heart, revisit his carefully worked-out plan, and revise his original intentions. Joseph could have easily said "no." Yet Joseph found enough courage, faith, and willingness not to be afraid, unravel his thoughtfully made plans, and become more generous with his love.
These threshold moments are in every phase of our life. How do I respond to life when I am under pressure and faced with situations that can disquiet me? How do I live from a place of greater acceptance and hospitality when life fills with shadows of sadness for the people I love? These days before Christmas, many things can keep us from the stillness ready to open us to the wonder and beauty of Emmanuel. When I find myself caught up with an overly full schedule, I realize how vital it is for me to put my hand over my heart midday, pause for a moment of remembrance, take one deep breath, and say to myself, "Jesus, Jesus." Creating this small haven of quiet regains my stillness and opens my heart wide enough to open what is closed, widen what is narrow, and love large where it is small.
Emmanuel, God-with-us, when you move me toward change and a deeper relationship with you, show me where my resistance to that grow-filled invitation resides. Please guide me to become more courageous and generous like Joseph and to be open when you invite me to take a risk.
Tam Lontok