Joseph's Decision to Leave Mary Quietly

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season:  Fourth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel :  Mt 1:18-24*

*First Reading : Is 7:10-14*

*Responsorial Psalm : 24: 1-6*

*Second Reading : Rom :1:1-7*

*Joseph's Decision to Leave Mary Quietly* 

*1) Joseph's Decision to Leave Mary*

According to the Gospel of Matthew, Joseph was engaged (betrothed) to Mary when he discovered she was pregnant. At that point:

Joseph did not yet know the pregnancy was by the Holy Spirit

In Jewish law, betrothal was legally binding—ending it required a formal divorce

Pregnancy during betrothal was normally understood as unfaithfulness

So, from Joseph’s point of view, the situation looked very serious and painful.

*2) Why he planned to do it “quietly”*

Matthew describes Joseph as a “righteous” or “just” man.

Joseph had two options under the law:

*A) Public accusation* – which would bring shame and severe consequences for Mary

*B) Private divorce* – ending the betrothal without public exposure

Joseph chose the second option because:

He wanted to obey the law

He also wanted to protect Mary from shame and harm

He acted with compassion, even while hurt and confused

*3) Was Joseph justified in planning to leave Mary?*

*From a human and legal perspective: yes.*

He acted based on the information he had

He followed the law without cruelty

He showed mercy instead of anger or revenge

*From a faith perspective:*

Joseph’s plan was understandable but incomplete

God later revealed a greater truth through an angel

Joseph then immediately obeyed, taking Mary as his wife

This shows that Joseph was not stubborn—he was open to God’s guidance.

*4) Reflections on the Person of Joseph*

*A) Joseph models compassionate righteousness* : Being “right” does not mean being harsh. Joseph shows that true righteousness includes mercy.

*B) Acting with limited understanding* : Joseph made the best decision he could with what he knew. This reflects real life: we often act without seeing the full picture.

*C) Obedience after clarity* : Once God revealed the truth, Joseph changed course. This shows humility and faith.

*D) Silent faithfulness* : Joseph speaks no recorded words in the Gospels, yet his actions speak powerfully. Faith is often lived out quietly.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*