Joseph's Dreams and the Birth of Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season:  Third Week : Thursday*

*Gospel :  Mt 1:18-24*

*First Reading : Jeremiah 23:5-8*

*Responsorial Psalm : 72: 1-19*

*Joseph's Dreams and the Birth of Jesus*

*1) Joseph: The Man Who Listens in Silence*

Joseph never speaks a single word in the Gospels, yet he listens attentively. His righteousness is shown not through speech but through obedient action.

In a dream, the angel tells him not to fear taking Mary as his wife (Mt 1:20). Joseph believes, trusts, and acts immediately.

God often speaks in quiet ways. Joseph teaches us that holiness is not always dramatic; it is often silent faithfulness.

*2) Dreams as a Biblical Language of God*

In Scripture, dreams are a familiar way God communicates His plan: Joseph of the Old Testament (Genesis) receives God’s guidance through dreams.

Prophets often receive visions at night. Dreams reveal what human reason alone cannot grasp.

In the birth of Jesus: Joseph receives four dreams (Mt 1–2), each protecting the Child and fulfilling God’s plan.

Dreams signify that God’s plan transcends human logic. The mystery of the Incarnation cannot be understood merely by reason; it requires openness of heart.

*3) Dreams and the Mystery of the Incarnation*

The birth of Jesus is not a human project but God’s initiative. Dreams underline that: Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit.

His identity and mission come from God, not human decision.

Joseph’s role is not biological but vocational and spiritual.

Joseph accepts a role he did not design. True discipleship means accepting God’s plan even when it disrupts our own.

*4) Dreams Lead to Protection and Mission*

Each dream given to Joseph involves movement and action:

Accept Mary (Mt 1:20)

Flee to Egypt (Mt 2:13)

Return to Israel (Mt 2:19)

Settle in Nazareth (Mt 2:22)

God’s guidance is never passive. When we truly listen, it leads us to protect life, serve others, and move courageously, even into uncertainty.

*5) Joseph as Model for Discernment*

Joseph discerns God’s voice not through signs and wonders but through:

Prayerful openness

Moral integrity

Readiness to act

Dreams symbolize the inner space of discernment, where God speaks to those who are humble and available. In a noisy world, Joseph invites us to rediscover silence.

*6) Dreams Fulfill God’s Promises*

Through Joseph’s dreams: 

Jesus is born into the house of David.

Scripture is fulfilled (“Out of Egypt I called my son”).

God’s saving plan unfolds quietly but surely.

God’s promises are often fulfilled without spectacle, through ordinary people who trust Him completely.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*