First Reading: (Jeremiah 23:5–8)
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 72:1–2, 12–13, 18–19)
R. Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace forever.
Alleluia Verse
Alleluia, alleluia.
O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!
Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 1:18–25)
Reflection
1. Expectation & Righteous Leadership
Jeremiah proclaims hope in the coming of a “righteous shoot” from the line of David, an ideal king who will reign with justice and secure peace for God’s people. This prophecy speaks directly to the heart of Advent: waiting not merely for change, but for a world reordered according to God’s justice.
2. Justice, Peace & Compassion
Psalm 72 expands this vision by describing the mission of the righteous ruler: to defend the poor, rescue the oppressed, and establish peace. Justice here is not abstract, it is compassionate, active, and attentive to the vulnerable. True leadership, the psalm reminds us, always glorifies God by lifting others up.
3. Joseph’s Obedient Justice
In Matthew’s Gospel, we see how God’s promise enters history through quiet faithfulness. Joseph is called a “just man,” and his justice is revealed through mercy. He chooses to spare Mary from shame, intending a quiet separation. When God intervenes, Joseph responds with obedience, courage, and trust. His actions mirror the righteous leadership foretold by Jeremiah, not through power, but through faithful surrender.
4. Emmanuel: God With Us
The names revealed in the Gospel, Jesus (“God saves”) and Emmanuel (“God with us”), express the heart of salvation. God’s justice is not distant; it enters our human condition. The promise given through Jeremiah is fulfilled not merely in kingship, but in divine love taking flesh and dwelling among us.
Personal Application
Awaiting God’s Justice: What am I impatiently seeking resolution for? Advent invites us to trust God’s timing and purposes.
Living Justly: How can my daily choices reflect mercy toward those in need? Even small acts participate in Christ’s justice.
Heeding the Divine Call: Like Joseph, faith often requires obedience in uncertainty. What is God asking me to embrace?
Welcoming Emmanuel: Pray for the grace to recognize God’s presence—in relationships, work, and even in trials.
Verses for Reflection
“Behold, the days are coming… when I will raise up a righteous shoot.” (Jeremiah 23:5)
“Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace forever.” (Psalm 72:7)
“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid… you are to name him Jesus… Emmanuel, God is with us.” (Matthew 1:20–23)
Theological Insight
Kingdom of Justice: Jesus inaugurates the kingdom promised by Jeremiah—not through earthly might, but through spiritual authority rooted in love, sacrificial justice, and reconciliation.
Model of Joseph: Joseph’s righteousness, expressed in compassion and prompt obedience, reveals how God safeguards His saving plan through faithful hearts.
I hope you receive something meaningful from this reflection.
God bless and have a wonderful evening.
-Pal Ronnie
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