# The Christmas Novena – Day Two: The Announcement to Joseph
*2008-12-14*

> Bill Young reflects on the second day of the Christmas novena, focusing on the angel’s announcement to Joseph in Matthew 1:18‑21 and offering prayers of preparation for the Incarnation.

## The Scripture Reading

We turn to the Gospel according to Matthew, chapter 1, verses 18‑21. Mary, betrothed to Joseph, was found to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, a righteous man, intended to divorce her quietly so as not to bring her disgrace. While he was considering this, an angel appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

## Prayer of Anticipation

Lord God, grant that we may await this great mystery with reverent hearts, that the Blessed Virgin, by the power of the Holy Spirit, may bring forth our God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who reigns forever. Amen.

## Our Father

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

## Hail Mary

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

## Doxology

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

*May the angel’s reassurance to Joseph inspire us to trust God’s plan, even when it seems impossible.*