19 - 25 December 2010
Worship Together19 - 25 December 2010
Advent 4
Matthew 1.18-25Do not be afraid
With Christmas almost upon us, we turn this week to the announcement that Jesus is coming. As we are now in the year of Matthew, we hear his take on this, which is, in many ways, from Joseph's perspective. Joseph becomes an assiduous carer, going to remarkable lengths to protect the new child. But his first encounter with his task sees him fearful and it takes the visit of the angel to assure him that the job is reasonable. In facing tasks that seem impossible, or just unwelcome, we all need reassurance. God's love is, however, transformative.
The links between the readings
The Gospel describes the conception of Jesus as 'from the Holy Spirit' and Paul had been at pains not only to point out the fulfilment of Scripture as Matthew had done, but speaks of the birth of Jesus in terms very like Matthew's. He is descended from David as in Matthew's genealogy leading to Joseph, but also Son of God 'according to the spirit of holiness'. The phrase sounds like a reminder of Jesus' baptism (Matthew 3.16-17) at which he is 'my Son, the Beloved' and the Spirit descends on him. Matthew makes the link with Isaiah. The choice of the psalm is probably determined only by the name Joseph, a noted ancestor, well acquainted with the significance of dreams, and the Joseph of the Gospel, who will receive similar guidance from God.
These resources were first published in Issue 50 November/December 2010.
Lectionary Bible readings for RCL Advent 4
Isaiah 7.10-16
Psalm 80.1-7,17-19
Romans 1.1-7
Matthew 1.18-25
