Sunday, December 21, 2025

Dear brother and sisters,

As one of the four Gospels in the New Testament, the book of Matthew offers a distinctive perspective on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Matthew, traditionally regarded as a former tax collec-tor, presents Jesus not only as the Savior but also as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. On one hand, Matthew emphasizes the divine nature of the Son of God, particularly in His miraculous conception (Matt. 1:18–25), His authority to forgive sins (Matt. 9:2–8), His sacred identity revealed in the Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–9), and His divine mission that reveals His unique relationship with God the Father. On the other hand, Matthew introduces Jesus as the promised King, the Son of David (Matt. 1:1–17), who would rule on David’s throne and bring to completion God’s covenant promises to Israel.

Although Joseph is not as prominently featured as Mary or Jesus, Matthew presents him as a key figure in the unfolding of God’s plan of salvation. Through his act of adoption, Joseph grants Jesus a legitimate place with-in the Jewish community and secures His identity in the Davidic genealogy. More than simply Mary’s hus-band or Jesus’ earthly guardian, Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew is specially portrayed as a faithful servant of God. His obedience without full understanding, trust in divine guidance, and steadfast service during the birth and early years of Jesus make him a profound example of fatherly devotion and humble submission to God’s will.

Ultimately, Joseph’s story in the Gospel of Matthew, especially in this weekend’s passage, reminds us that God often calls His people to serve quietly and faithfully behind the scenes, without spotlight or recognition, yet with profound significance in His unfolding plan. Joseph shows us that true discipleship begins with a heart willing to listen to God’s voice, obey His commands, follow His direction, and trust His purpose, even when that purpose stretches beyond our understanding. His example challenges us to hold fast to moral integ-rity, to act with justice and compassion, and to walk in righteousness by faith rather than by sight, especially when the path ahead is unclear or uncomfortable. Like Joseph, we are invited to surrender our fears, embrace God’s calling, and live out a quiet but courageous obedience that allows God’s will to take shape in and through our lives.

Sincerely yours in Jesus Christ and Our Lady of La Vang!

Reverend Kiet Anh Ta.