Introduction
This Gospel story tells how Joseph was troubled by the news of Mary’s unexpected pregnancy. God sends an Angel to reassure Joseph of God’s plan to redeem Israel through her Son, Jesus.
God chose Mary to bear God’s Son, yet she was vulnerable and needed the love, protection, and support of her husband during this time.
The Annunciation to Joseph Reflection according to the Gospel of Matthew contains the full text of this marvelous story of God’s action in his life.
The Gospel Account
Joseph has a dream and a visit from an angel, commanding him to take Mary as his wife, after learning she was unexpectedly pregnant.
You can find the story of The Annunciation to Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 1, verses 18 – 25.
Click on this link to view the Gospel passage using the New American Bible translation.
The Five Decades
When you pray the five decades of this Rosary Reflection, use these five moments from the Gospel story. Read the Gospel verses for each decade and let the words sink in as you pray that decade.
First Decade: Joseph’s Dilemma (Matt 1:26-29)
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.
Second Decade: The Angel’s Appearance (Matt 1:20)
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.
Third Decade: Mary’s Child (Matt 1:21)
“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.”
Fourth Decade: Prophecy Fulfilled (Matt 1:22-23)
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.”’
Fifth Decade: Joseph Obeys God (Matt 1:24-25)
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.
What to Remember
This Gospel story shows how God protected the plan of salvation of humanity announced to Mary through the faithful love and companionship of her husband Joseph.
As a follower of Jesus, you can learn and adopt Joseph’s example of following God’s will. When you take the words of this Gospel passage to heart, you will be open to hear God speak to you, whether through a dream, a friend, or an angel. Trust that God is all-knowing, all-wise, and works out God’s plan of saving others through your life and love.
What to Pray For
Here are a few intentions to pray for:
• For greater openness to hear God’s messengers announcing God’s plan to you.
• For deeper admiration of God’s saving action in human history, especially in supporting those who bring about God’s presence in life.
• For greater awareness in the Church of St. Joseph’s prayers and help in time of need.
• For husbands and their commitment to love, protect, and support their wives and families
Pray the rosary using this Gospel when you want more connection with Joseph, his love for God, and Mary’s love and prayers for you.
When This Gospel Appears
Matthew’s Gospel account of the Annunciation to Joseph in the Gospel reading during various Marian Feast days, specifically on the Feast of the Nativity of Mary. The latest appearance is September 8, 2022.
* Scripture passages are from the United Conference of Catholic Bishops website, https://usccb.org/bible
