2. "The Annunciation to Joseph"

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“The Annunciation to Joseph”

The Annunciation to Mary by the Angel Gabriel is shared for us only by Luke. The Annunciation to Joseph is described for us only by Matthew. What a blessing it is that the Holy Spirit shared both of these moments with us in Sacred Scripture.

Our icon portrays three different challenges for Joseph. First, the painful moment of awareness: Mary was pregnant and not with his child. This scene plays out as a temptation by the devil (bottom left side). Joseph is in the “dark.” But, “Joseph … a righteous man, … decided to divorce her quietly.” (Matthew 1:19)

Then an angel appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.” Matthew 1:20

“When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.” Matthew 1:24

In the scene at bottom right, the embrace of Mary and Joseph says it all: They are in love. What they did not know was how much they would need the strength of their love in the future.

Have not we all had frightening challenges before us? And maybe even had decided upon a course of action to take. Then God interceded.

Thank you, Joseph! Thank you, Mary! Thank you, Gabriel!

Thank you, my Lord and my God!