"Jospeh was indeed righteous. But more importantly, he was merciful, faithful, and courageous."
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Year A, Season of Advent
Advent 4
Sunday Between December 18 and December 24 Inclusive
December 23, 2007
Read the passage: The Message or The New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).
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Verse 18. "Engaged" is misleading. Mary and Joseph have been betrothed - that is, solemnly contracted by their families to be married at some later date.
"She was found to be with child" is a curious use of the passive voice. Who has done the finding? The text gives no indication.
The fact that Mary is pregnant before she and Joseph have married is shameful in the extreme - both for Mary and her family.
However, that the child is "from the Holy Spirit" confuses the situation since that is a great honour.
In hindsight, it is the honour that has won the day. But, at the time, and in the actual circumstance, it is Mary's shame that guides Joseph's initial response.
