4th Sunday of Advent, Year A

All in a dream

This is the 4th Sunday of Advent. Unexpected circumstances. Hard decisions to make. Angels speaking to Joseph in a dream – and we are ready to race through this gospel to get to the birth of Jesus and in so doing consign Jesus to the background. But our gospel emphasizes Joseph “rose from sleep and did as the angel commanded” (v24). Joseph’s response to God’s message is immediate. There is no hesitation, no weighing of alternatives, no delay. In quiet faith, he rises from sleep and acts. His obedience is not merely compliance but trust — trust that what God asks, In that moment, Joseph becomes a model for all believers. He teaches us that godliness is not measured by eloquent words or lofty feelings, but by ready obedience. When God speaks, be it through Scripture, conscience, or circumstance, the holy person listens and acts without delay. The holy person is one who, like Joseph, wakes and acts.

As always, a lot going on in the gospel reading. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and take a moment on the back porch with the Word of God.

Full Text of the Sunday Gospel
Detailed Commentary