IN THE MESSY MIDDLE
"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid…" - Mt 1:18-25
The passage from today's gospel unveils the profound struggle within Joseph upon discovering Mary's unexpected pregnancy, echoing the uncertainties we grapple with in our lives. Joseph's reluctance becomes a mirror reflecting our hesitations, yet within the struggle, an invitation leads him to dwell in the embrace of Emmanuel - God with us. In the spirit of Advent, Joseph encourages us to navigate the inner interstates of our hearts, releasing the illusion of control and trusting the path unfolding beneath our feet in our everyday lives. In the messy middle of Joseph's journey, the angel appeared, offering guidance and reassurance in a moment of sacred silence: "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid." Confusion is met with grace, challenging Joseph's understanding of the situation, urging him to reconsider, inviting him to let the unexpected in, and to become a co-custodian of God's greater story for him. Joseph's dream resonates with me, stirring reflections on those defining moments that have the power to reshape the course of our lives and connections. In those in-between spaces, God gently engages in a delicate dialogue, inviting me to surrender my fears and embrace the ineffable beauty of trust.
While in the final stretch of my two-year end-of-life care program, forgiveness has taken center stage, mainly as I delved into the Art of Spiritual Eldering. I discovered that forgiveness unfolds in two crucial dimensions: liberating ourselves by forgiving others and bravely acknowledging our part in the intricate dance of healing. A verse from a guided meditation etched itself into my soul: When we withhold forgiveness, we unknowingly imprison others in our hearts, becoming unwitting jailkeepers. The path to inner freedom lies in extending our forgiveness, unchaining others and ourselves, and allowing love to flow freely. This meditation created more awareness of how sometimes the right path is the challenging one and reminded me to stay attuned to the compass points guiding me back to the trailhead with markers towards greater love, forgiveness, and grace - trusting that there can be beauty waiting to be uncovered and to be open that the unexpected might be the most beautiful part of my journey.
Lord, where are you inviting me to be more receptive to guidance that may not align with my initial perceptions?
Tam Lontok