Joseph Osho

  20 December  Isaiah 7:10-14 Psalm 23(24):1-6 Luke 1:26-38 The coming of Christ fulfilled a long-standing promise, not an accident. In today’s reading, Ahaz's fear led to his kingdom's destruction, but Isaiah reassures him of God's care and offers a sign: a virgin will conceive and bear a son, Emmanuel. In the Gospel, Mary’s encounter with the angel reveals God's plan for her to bear the Son of God, despite her doubts. Her trust leads her to say, “May it be done to me according to your word.” God's promises are fulfilled in those open to Him. As Christmas approaches, let us pray: “Lord, you are the key of David who opens and closes; help us welcome you with trust.” Amen.  

  19 December  Judges 13:2-7,​24-25 Psalm 70(71):3-6,16-17 Luke 1:5-25 The first reading and the gospel highlight the faith and trust of the patriarchs, such as Samson and John, who glorified God in Israel. Today, faith like GPS, strengthening our divine connection. Scriptures urge us to anticipate Christ, finding Him in unexpected places. Jesus calls us to support marginalized people—those isolated, in distress, poor, homeless, or from diverse backgrounds—who need our compassion, like Joseph, Mary, and Jesus.

  18 December  Jeremiah 23:5-8 Psalm 71(72):1-2,12-13,18-19 Matthew 1:18-24 We often rush through year-end celebrations, missing important messages, especially as we reflect on today’s gospel. The story always has something to say, especially to us. An angel and a dream speak to Mary and Joseph, who trusted God’s plan. Mary questioned and stepped into it; Joseph loved Mary, was hurt and afraid, but heard God's message in a dream and trusted. We all have an angel and a dream—messages of reassurance and trust. The story reminds us to trust our hearts and step into God's will, even amid tempting choices.  As Advent ends, we recognize our role in God’s plan, trusting the angel and the dream, and awaiting God's wondrous work. Lord, let your spirit make us holy. Amen.  

  17 December  Genesis 49:2,​8-10 Psalm 71(72):1-4,7-8,17 Matthew 1:1-17 In eight days, Christians will celebrate the miracle that changed the world when God became human in Jesus, bringing hope and joy. Christians see Jesus as their king, redeemer, savior, and messiah. After Vatican II, the Lectionary and Divine Office introduced the O Antiphons as the Gospel Acclamation during Mass. These ancient chants are sung or recited from December 17-23, each building on the previous one, starting with ‘Wisdom’. They invite us into the hearts of Israel and Gentiles, longing for the Saviour. Matthew’s genealogy shows prophecy's fulfillment through history until Christ’s incarnation, with events pre-ordained ‘with strength and gentleness’. Jesus will be a different kind of king—unlike worldly rulers, but a savior often overlooked. Genesis predicts Israel’s royal reign, with Judah’s victory, homage, and a lion-like kingship. Conversely, the psalm envisions God's reign breaking into the wo...

Tuesday of the 3rd week of Advent  Zephaniah 3:1-2,​9-13 Psalm 33(34):2-3,6-7,16,18-19,23 Matthew 21:28-32 In today’s gospel, Jesus shares a story about saying yes—the parable of doing the Father’s will. There’s a difference between lip and heart commitment, unless lip commitment is rooted in the heart. Do not delay repentance; procrastination thwarts salvation. Our knowledge of God should motivate us to do His will. Knowledge opens the door to seeing our Saviour. It also paints His portrait, and when we see that portrait, we love Him. We cannot love a Christ we do not know, at least to some degree. Therefore, it is vital to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

  Monday of the 3rd week of Advent  Numbers 24:2-7,​15-17 Psalm 24(25):4-6,7a-9 Matthew 21:23-27 In Numbers 22-24, Balaam, not Moses, is the focus. He’s a prophet near Israel’s path to the Promised Land, recognized by the Moabite king for blessing and cursing. Balaam, spirit-filled, sees Israel’s pure state and prophesies a coming star and staff from Jacob and Israel, symbolizing Jesus. The people—the priests and elders—fail to see this truth, focusing instead on their own power. God often speaks through unexpected sources, like Balaam’s donkey or a child born in simplicity, revealing his ways aren’t always as we expect. A truth we must accept. As we eagerly await the Lord's coming, we equally reflect on His remarkable, humble arrival-not veiled by grandeur, but in the innocence of a tiny child. Isn't that how the Lord works in our lives? He captures our attention through the vulnerability of a newborn, often bypassing mighty rulers and kings to reveal His greatness in the sim...