The Birth of Jesus

Today's Reflections

The Birth of Jesus

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Mt 1:1-16, 18-23

…¹⁶Jacob [became] the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Messiah.

¹⁸Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the holy Spirit. ¹⁹Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. ²⁰Such 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 to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. ²¹She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” ²²All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:/ ²³“Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son,/ and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.”

Reflection:

She will bear a son. In Matthew, the story of Jesus’ birth is told from Joseph’s point of view, not Mary’s. The story is preceded by a genealogy, in which Joseph is named as the legal father.

In biblical Jewish culture, a genealogy establishes social position and religious identity. The family tree shows the vertical extension of the Jewish family which includes grandparents and grandchildren. In Jesus’ case, the natural genealogical line is broken; yet, the promises to David are fulfilled through divine intervention. By means of Joseph’s consent to be the legal father, the child Jesus belongs to the family of David and in the process fulfills the ancient prophecies.

In a culture that emphasizes family honor, Mary’s unexpected pregnancy puts her in a vulnerable position and can bring dishonor to her whole family. Joseph’s initial reluctance to marry is transformed by a dream that shows the truth of it all. A baby will come to Joseph and Mary who will be the symbol of new life and hope.

What do you feel at the sight of a newborn baby?

Do you see hope for the future?

How do you help a child feel

at home in your family (extended)?