Reflection for December 21
Joanna, age 5
This autumn day, I reread this gospel and simply hold the message that “God is with us.”
Trusting in God’s plan for our lives, as Joseph did, is not easy. Is it a new assignment at work, a new town we have moved to, or simply continuing daily with the routines and expectations of our roles in life as daughters, sons, spouses, and parents? Simply put…Faith in the Lord’s plan that is one greater than our own could only come with trust.
Doing what is right, when it could bring about the glaring lens and judgment of others, Joseph quietly trusted…his faith in action. Taking on a responsibility that was not his own but, instead, doing the right thing. He looked to quietly take on what God was asking of him. He took Mary as his wife. How do we lead a life that is inspired by the example of Joseph from today’s gospel? How do we inspire others with the example of our lives?
Today’s date, December 21, 2025, would have been my maternal grandfather’s 105th birthday. I chose this gospel reading to prayerfully reflect upon with him in mind. I remember my Pepere’s smile, humor, work ethic, and faith life example. Although 17 years have passed since he went home to God, I think of him often. His immigrant story of choosing to come to the United States from Canada with his wife, and large family of children, despite the unknowns inclusive of a new language, customs, and job security. I would like to believe, from his example of faith, that moving to a new country, despite all the challenges, was only possible because he believed “God is with us.”
My mother’s faith life example was because of her parents, and mine, because of my parents. How lucky to navigate life’s unknowns because we all believe we are accompanied in this life with God as our guide.
May the coming days continue to bless us as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s birth. May we always humble ourselves and remember, God is with us!
Ginette Kempf