God asked for space in a man’s home, assuring him that he could always ask him (God) to leave. The man agreed. Over time God asked for a quarter of the home. Afraid that God might want more, but not wanting to ask him to entirely leave, the man agreed. Insistently but gently God requested half, and then three quarters, and then the entire home. He promised the man he would never regret it. Joseph was already a very righteous man. But God wanted more from him. He wanted to take over Joseph’s life. And he got it. But look at Joseph now – a great saint and role model for fathers and all Christians. Who among us will not want to be Joseph now? The good news is that we too can be like him, though not exactly. God is always asking for more room in our busy lives. Often, it means giving up our plans and embracing his, like Joseph. Proverb 3:5-6 says: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Nobody wins fighting God. 

Prayer: Lord, help us to trust in your love and plans for us, just like Joseph and Mary. Amen.