Daily Gospel Reflection for December 18, 2023:

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 18:1-25

When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, I marveled that for a short time before sharing our news only God, my husband, and I knew another little person existed. Years later, I would discover I was pregnant when one of my children was still a baby. I was overjoyed to know another perfect human was being formed in my body, but also nervous. Was I ready to welcome another baby into the world again so soon? I didn’t feel ready to announce this pregnancy before I was obviously showing.

In this Gospel, it says that Mary was, “found with child of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18). I’ve always wondered how Mary shared the news (or didn’t) with her mother and father. How did Joseph find out about her pregnancy? Did Mary confront him, or did he literally notice she was pregnant as her belly expanded? When he did find out, Joseph resolved to do the righteous, kind thing: divorce Mary quietly. This is such a good example of good discernment. Understandably, Joseph struggles with the idea of Mary becoming pregnant apart from man, and the law stipulates a certain response toward adultery. It’s an even greater example of how God speaks and Joseph listens when God intervenes to ensure that Joseph knows Mary conceived a baby sinlessly, by the Holy Spirit. It is so comforting to know that even when I don’t understand what God may be doing in my life, when I try to discern to my best ability, He will continue to guide me even if I misunderstand.

Ponder:

In making decisions, do I trust that God is leading me and that discernment doesn't rest upon my shoulders alone?

Pray:

Jesus, help me to see You more. Jesus, help me to trust in You more.

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He will continue to guide me even if I misunderstand. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Lindsey Mitzel