“Faith is the certainty of things hoped for and the assurance of things unseen. “ – Hebrews 11:1
Reflecting on the Holy Family at dinner tonight, we imagined what Mary and Joseph must have felt as they awaited the birth of Jesus.
Fear – was this really possible? Was everything going to plan?
*Wonder – how powerful is God to do something like this?!?!
*Anticipation – when is this baby going to arrive?
*Excitement- the feeling that they cannot wait to see what their family looks like in with this child will do
These are just to name a few. And in a similar, but different way, we were able to relate to them all! Having just completed a pregnancy, and a miraculous one at that, we felt fear, wonder, anticipation, excitement, and so much more!
I have been certain for 10 years that I hoped to be pregnant again. I prayed for 10 years that I could be pregnant again and carry just one more baby full-term. Was I certain it would happen? I’m sad to say no. But I held onto the belief that those closest to me held for me.
It wasn’t until a year and a half ago May 2021, that I had any kind of assurance of some thing unseen. Jacob and I were in St. Louis for a fertility procedure, and while in prayer at their basilica, I clearly heard the Lord tell me “you’ll have another boy coming to your family.“ And again, I am ashamed to admit my disbelief. But the Lord assured me in a very stern and serious voice, “Maria, do you have another boy coming to your family… And his name is Joseph Patrick.”
“The promise of things hoped for, and the certainty of things unseen,” took out a whole new meaning for me. I imagine feeling how Abraham and Sarah must’ve felt! I mean, I didn’t laugh at God, but I definitely wondered if he was sending the message to the right Maria!
I’ve held onto that for a year and a half, and to be holding the miracle child that God prophesied into my life is completely surreal! And he’s definitely not the Christ child! But I am grateful for a deeper glimpse into the mystery of the incarnation & a better understanding of what the holy family may have experienced in their anticipation, leading up to the birth of Christ.
Hope in God does not disappoint, my friends. May this Advent season, teach us to have bigger faith in a deeper hope.
Hope and Healing 