Fourth Sunday of Lent
The Pharisee Nicodemus came to Jesus at night wondering how one might be “born from above.” (John 3: 3). Jesus explained to him that we must be “born of the spirit,” (John 3:8) and that the Son was sent into the world as “light” (John 3:19). Like Nicodemus, we are invited to “come toward the light.” (John 3: 20)
Many years before when Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the Temple, Simeon proclaimed that this child was to be “a light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.” (Luke 2: 32)
There were moments in Joseph’s life, when he did not understand, moments when he was in darkness. Perhaps there were moments when he could not sleep at night, wondering what all this meant. But he consistently and faithfully journeyed toward the light. He listened to the voices in his dreams and even found the courage to risk ridicule when he took Mary into his home. Joseph experienced enlightenment, with enough insight to act, with faith and trust.
How are you coming toward the light this Lent? Are you experiencing any enlightenment, any moments of insight? Is the work of the spirit causing something to stir within you? Is there some area of your life where you need courage? Maybe St. Joseph can walk with you, to be your guide, as one who once walked in darkness, but came to see a great light. (Is 9:1)