Emmanuel

Greetings on this the Saturday of the Third Week of Advent
Readings: Jer 23:5-8; PS 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Mt 1:18-25
Notes: God is with us.

Is there need for anything else?

First reading
Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will raise up a righteous shoot to David (Jer 23:5).
But a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse,
and from his roots a bud shall blossom (Is 11:1).

Hate evil and love good,
and let justice prevail at the gate;
Then it may be that the LORD, the God of hosts,
will have pity on the remnant of Joseph (Amos 5:15).

From the remnant the Lord will sprout Justice.

Responsorial Psalm
Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.

For he shall rescue the poor when he cries out,
and the afflicted when he has no one to help him.
He shall have pity for the lowly and the poor;
the lives of the poor he shall save.

Alleluia Verse
O Leader of the House of Israel,
giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai:
come to rescue us with your mighty power!

Gospel Portion
Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame.

Joseph is held up as the Guardian of the Holy Family.
He focused on aid out of love and not judgement and shame.

Those who follow the LORD focus on aid, love and the remnant that exists not just a few people among many but in a special place within each of us.

Maranatha!!
Come, Lord Jesus, Come!

Emmanuel within me!

related post: https://deacongerrypalermo.blog/2020/12/07/your-sins-are-forgiven/

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry