Today's Gospel: Overflowing Joy with the Lord

Today's Gospel: Bethlehem Ephrathah, the Joy that Overflow

Today, September 8th, the Church celebrates the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. In many towns across Spain, patron saint festivals are celebrated with masses and processions dedicated to countless Marian advocations. But the liturgy this Tuesday focuses not on Mary, but on a prophecy pointing toward Bethlehem.

The Prophecy of Micah: Bethlehem Ephrathah

The first reading, taken from the prophecy of Micah, announces that from Bethlehem Ephrathah, “little among the clans of Judah,” shall come he who is to govern Israel. The text emphasizes that his origins are ancient, from times immemorial. It is a promise of peace: “He himself shall be peace.” The Responsorial Psalm, “Overflowing Joy with the Lord,” embraces this trust in divine mercy.

Saint Joseph, the Just Who Dreams

The Gospel according to Saint Matthew introduces the figure of Saint Joseph, the just, who receives in his sleep confirmation that the child is the Savior. The popular devotion of 'Sleeping Saint Joseph' has grown in recent years: the saint is depicted at the moment the angel speaks to him, and many faithful entrust their intentions to him. Father Santiago Martín’s homily, a Franciscan, underscores that this joy is born only of faith. Furthermore, tradition invites prayer upon the Rosary of Divine Mercy at 3:00 PM, the hour of mercy.

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And while central Spain celebrates the antiestéticasts of the Virgin, today's gospel invites us to look upon the just Joseph who, asleep, heard the voice of God. Overflowing joy with the Lord is an act of trust, not nostalgia.