Advent 4 - God needs Joseph's "Yes"

Sunday Sermon for Advent 4 on Matthew 1:18-25. Today's Gospel is about Joseph, having learned that Mary is pregnant, struggles with tough love. He balances his love for Mary, which continues to treat her with dignity  and respect, with the reality of the consequences of her actions that cannot be dismissed. Joseph has the right to demand a public trial, which would usually result in someone being stoned. In choosing to dismiss Mary quietly, Joseph forgives her for dishonoring him and gives up the right to publicly reclaim his honor at her expense. Isn't it interesting only after Joseph goes through this anguish does God show up in a dream to reassure Joseph that Mary was telling the truth. Going through the mental and emotional struggle for Joseph is an exercise in seeing people as God sees us and seeking restoration rather than retribution in the situation.