By Stassi Cramm, president and prophet of Community of Christ
When…Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
In the stillness of a winter night, the promise of love resonates deeply within our hearts. This promise often manifests in the bonds we share with others. These relationships are the bedrock of our lives, offering comfort, support, and strength through the highs and lows of life.
The story of Joseph and Mary, as told in Matthew, beautifully illustrates the blessing of fulfilling a promise of love. Joseph faced an extraordinary situation when he discovered that Mary, his betrothed, was with child. Despite his initial resolve to quietly end their engagement, Joseph heeded the angel’s message. With faith, he embraced Mary as his wife and named the child Jesus.
This act of obedience and unconditional love is a testament to the power of a promise kept. Joseph’s faithfulness not only honored Mary but also set the stage for the fulfillment of God’s greater promise—God’s sacrificial love for the world expressed in the gift of God’s son, Jesus Christ.
As precious and vital as human promises to love are, they pale in comparison to God’s promise of love. Unlike human love—which can be marred by imperfections, limitations, and conditions—God’s love is perfect, unwavering, and unconditional. The birth of Jesus, prophesied as Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us,” is the ultimate expression of this divine promise. It assures us that, regardless of our circumstances or shortcomings, God’s love remains steadfast, eternal, and offered to all.
God’s promise of love provides us assurance and hope that we can count on. God’s love transcends all human limitations, offering us an unparalleled sense of security and peace. Having experienced God’s love, we are called to share it not only with family and friends, but also with our enemies. In this season of Advent as we once again remember God’s promise of love for each one, let us generously share this love with others without hesitation.
Prayer Phrase
“I bring you good news that will cause great joy” (Luke 2:10).
Kindling the Light
Choose a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably. Place a candle or small light in front of you. Take a few slow breaths, letting the noise of the day settle. Light the candle. As you strike the match or switch on the light, say softly:
“I make room for joy to grow within me.
I make room for the light that connects me to others.
I make room for the Spirit of Christ.”
Pause for a few breaths, letting the glow of the light fill your awareness.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.