Reflect today on the mystery of God's actions in life

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 pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her husband, because he was a righteous man but unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her in silence. Matthew 1: 18-19

Mary's pregnancy was truly mysterious. In fact, it was so mysterious that even St. Joseph initially couldn't accept it. But, in defense of Joseph, who could accept such a thing? He was faced with what was a very confusing situation. The woman he was engaged to suddenly became pregnant and Joseph knew he was not the father. But he also knew that Mary was a holy and pure woman. So naturally speaking, it makes sense that this situation simply didn't make immediate sense. But this is the key. “Of course speaking” this made no immediate sense. The only way to understand the situation of Mary's sudden pregnancy was through supernatural means. Thus, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and that dream was all he needed to accept this mysterious pregnancy with faith.

It is surprising to consider the fact that the greatest event ever in human history occurred under a cloud of apparent scandal and confusion. The angel revealed the profound spiritual truth to Joseph secretly, in a dream. And although Joseph may have shared his dream with others, it is very likely that many people still thought the worst. Most would have assumed that Mary was pregnant with Joseph or someone else. The idea that this conception was the work of the Holy Spirit would have been a truth beyond what their friends and relatives could ever understand.

But this presents us with a great lesson in God's judgment and action. There are countless examples in life where God and His perfect one will lead to judgment, apparent scandal and confusion. Take, for example, any martyr of antiquity. Let us now look at the many acts of martyrdom in a heroic way. But when the martyrdom actually took place, many would have been deeply saddened, angry, scandalized and confused. Many, when a loved one is martyred for the faith, would be tempted to wonder why God allowed it.

The holy act of forgiving another may also lead some to a form of "scandal" in life. Take, for example, the crucifixion of Jesus. From the Cross he cried out: “Father, forgive them…” Were not many of his followers confused and scandalized? Why didn't Jesus defend himself? How could the promised Messiah have been found guilty by the authorities and killed? Why did God allow this?

Reflect today on the mystery of God's actions in life. Are there things in your life that are difficult to accept, embrace or understand? Know that you are not alone in this. St. Joseph also lived it. Engage in prayer for a deeper faith in God's wisdom in the face of any mystery you struggle with. And know that this faith will help you live more fully in accordance with God's glorious wisdom.

Lord, I turn to You with the deepest mysteries of my life. Help me face them all with confidence and courage. Give me your mind and wisdom so that I can walk each day in faith, trusting in your perfect plan, even when that plan appears mysterious. Jesus I believe in you.