My life has been an open book to many, and the story of my father is one that I would share often. He met my mother, who came from a broken marriage and already had three children. My father pursued her despite the odds ahead. The situation had been complicated, but the mere fact that he stood for our family, even taking care of my other half-siblings, was something admirable. He mustered the courage to step into a situation that only a few could handle.

In the Gospel, Joseph clearly showed her merciful heart. Mary’s conception of Jesus must have been a shock to him, but his trust in God was indeed immeasurable. Something happened in a dream that led him to trust in the call of God even in the strange circumstances of the pregnancy of his wife-to-be. But instead of doubting, he just let himself be the father of the Messiah and accepted Him as his own. A great quality of Joseph was his openness. God called him to let go of his plans and put himself at the service of Jesus and Mary.

Being a priest-in-process, I am challenged to take responsibilities boldly and be obedient to God’s will. Here in the seminary, I am always reminded to trust God in every aspect of my journey. Like Joseph, I should embrace every challenge that I might encounter along the way, for with ardent faith, the impossible becomes possible.

By: Sem. Peter John D. Arao

Today’s Gospel

Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a

Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.
Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

Now 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.
Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame,
decided to divorce her quietly.
Such 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.
She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus,
because he will save his people from their sins.”
When Joseph awoke,
he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him
and took his wife into his home.