A potential public disgrace, a private dream, and one heck of a birth announcement! As we come to the close of Advent, Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy explore Joseph's angelic visitation. What would the cost have been for Joseph to break to break off his engagement, what do we miss by not reading Jesus' genealogy, and how will Jesus as "Emmanuel" be the fulfillment of God's desire for us?

Questions for Further Discussion:

Themes and Application

1. Much attention is given to Joseph as a central figure—his righteousness, his discernment, and his quiet obedience. What stands out to you about Joseph’s role in this story?
2. The genealogy in Matthew includes figures marked by scandal, outsider status, or complexity. Why do you think Matthew intentionally highlights these “messy” ancestors at the very start of the Gospel?
3. Peter noted that Matthew presents Jesus as both Son of David and Son of God. How do you hear these two identities working together in the story?

Personal Reflection

1. Joseph wrestles internally before receiving clarity through a dream. Can you recall a time when you had to make a difficult decision before having all the answers?
2. Dreams in Scripture are described as moments of divine communication rather than random mental activity. How open are you to the idea that God might speak through unexpected or liminal experiences?
3. Elizabeth notes that Joseph never speaks in the Gospel—he simply acts. How comfortable are you with faithful action that goes unseen or unacknowledged?

Broader Spiritual Considerations

1. The clergy describe Jesus’ birth as a new act of creation, echoing Genesis. What does it mean to think of salvation as God doing something entirely new rather than fixing something old?
2. The discussion raises questions about how Christians read Jewish Scripture responsibly. What responsibilities do we have when interpreting sacred texts that are shared across traditions?
3. As Advent draws to a close, how does this passage invite you to wait differently—not just for Christmas, but for God’s presence in everyday life?

Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002.

Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org