Mary's Journey of Faith Novena Prayer - Day 4 - The Birth of Jesus

Mary called Joseph a “just man”… i.e. God-fearing, faithful, strong, loving.  He was forbidden by law to take this pregnant maiden into his house as wife.  But how to save her from public shame?  Once the angel spoke to him and manifested this Child as God’s offspring, Joseph bowed humbly and lovingly to this reality.  He was the protector of Mary’s virginity… and his own.  He was the primary example for the great manliness Jesus showed through His whole life.
 
Even the edict of Caesar for a census was part of God’s plan.  The Scriptures said the Christ had to be born in Bethlehem.  But what a revelation for Joseph and Mary to find themselves in a stable for the birth of the Son of God.  Surely there were profound reasons in God’s plan for this as well.
 
The angelic choirs invited the shepherds to this cosmic event… only a star to bring in the Wise Men from the East.  Meanwhile, the world went round and round in its ignorance of the greatest fact that ever took place on the face of the earth.  Let us learn that He reveals Himself to the “poor” and the “truly wise.”
 
Prayer
Lord Jesus, grant me the poverty of spirit which we find in Joseph and Mary… and the true wisdom of Your Spirit so we can find You in the “poor” and “truly wise.”  Amen.