Circle of Antoine Le Moiturier French
ca. 1450
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue metmuseum.org
The relief includes the unusual subject of Joseph warming the infant Jesus’ clothes at a fire. During the fifteenth century Joseph became increasingly significant and the subject of devotion.
Isaiah 7: 10 – 16
Psalm 89: 1- 4, 19 – 29
Romans 1: 1 – 7
Matthew 1: 18 – 25
“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.” (Matthew 1: 20) Anticipation can embody the depth of fear or joy. Sometimes both. It often results in assuming a reality that is not yet present. Discernment in prayer with God gives us a place to be that is grounding midst the anticipation. Having a baby is filled with anticipation, both of fear and joy. In Advent, more than forty years ago, I joyfully awaited the birth of my first child, but I worried I would not be able to keep her safe. My marriage was one of daily fear. The anticipation was fraught with emotional and spiritual pain.
I continue to experience a strong connection to Joseph. The coming of Mary’s baby brought fear, most likely tinged with anger, into the anticipation of his marriage. All that Joseph had imagined in the time of his betrothal to Mary was turned upside down.
God’s messenger arrived as Joseph made despairing decisions. I see his prayerful yearning for new possibilities as the reason the Angel’s assurance and admonishment were able to enter his dream. Something new, and wonderful, more than he could imagine, became his anticipation. Trusting in new joy, Joseph found courage for the realities of his future. Praying alongside his experience supported me and led me to the courage to be present for the new life within me. We can all walk with Joseph.
Joanne Davies