The Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent centers on Joseph, the quiet and obedient man whom God chose to play a vital role in the mystery of salvation. While other Advent readings focus on Mary’s “yes” to God, today we are invited to contemplate the silent “yes” of Joseph — a “yes” that required deep faith, courage, and humility.

Joseph’s world fell apart when he discovered that Mary, his betrothed, was with child. He must have been torn between love and law, between trust and confusion. Yet, as the Gospel tells us, Joseph was a righteous man. His righteousness was not about strict legalism, but about mercy and compassion. He chose not to expose Mary to public shame, even before the angel revealed God’s plan. This shows that true holiness is rooted in love and mercy, not merely in rules.

When the angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him not to be afraid, Joseph’s faith overcame his fear. He obeyed the angel’s message and accepted Mary and her child as his own. This act of obedience transformed his doubt into participation in the divine mystery. Through his quiet fidelity, Joseph became the guardian of the Redeemer and the protector of the Holy Family.

As we draw near to Christmas, Joseph’s example teaches us that God’s plans often unfold in ways we do not understand. Like Joseph, we are called to trust God even when life does not make sense. The Lord continues to speak in the silence of prayer, in dreams, and in the ordinary duties of life. What He asks of us is not loud heroism but humble faithfulness.

In our world today, where many families experience uncertainty, fear, and misunderstanding, Joseph stands as a model of faith, courage, and protective love. He reminds us that the most profound “yes” to God can be spoken in silence, through actions that reflect trust and obedience.

As we light the fourth candle of Advent, let us pray that, like Joseph, we may learn to listen to God’s voice with faith, to act with love even in confusion, and to welcome Christ into the home of our hearts.