Today we remember Joseph, worn-out traveler and worried husband, doing what is necessary for the sake of his family with the stifling burden of poverty, yet his hope remained certain in the promise of God. There is no room for him, yet he knows to whom he belongs. Hear now this reading from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 2, verses 1 through 4; 

“In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.  All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.”

On this fourth Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of love as a symbol of Joseph, who, with deep love as a new father, cared for, and provided for his small family, so that the Savior may be born into this world. 

Lord, We give thanks for the Josephs among us, migrating far from home when there is no choice, fiercely devoted to the ones they love, unwavering in their belief that there is room for all in the kingdom of God. We give thanks to You, Lord, for showing Your great love for us through the restorative work of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to love one another, just as You have loved us.

Amen.