Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: December 18, 2025

Date: Thursday of the 3^rd Week of Advent

Scripture Text:  Matthew 1:18-25

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:

Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son,

and they shall name him Emmanuel,

which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s gospel speaks of Joseph’s response to learning of Mary’s pregnancy. The LORD is an active LORD who enters among us and who speaks to the faithful through angelic dialogue. Truly, “God is with us.”

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I looking for the LORD daily? Am I allowing the LORD to walk with me or am always running ahead? Do I open myself to the LORD’s wisdom and direction?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, how powerful is your love for us that You would send your only-begotten Son to dwell among us, to assume our human nature in all ways except sin. As we prepare to celebrate His birth to the Virgin Mary, send your Spirit to soften our hearts, to tenderize our souls so that they may be more receptive to your love and the indwelling of your Son who promised us “I will be with you always.” We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.