Micah 5:1-4 or Romans 8:28-30 / Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23
If we have to think of a gospel passage or a bible passage to dedicate to someone on his/her birthday, we would certainly think of a profound passage that might include God's blessings on that person and how wonderfully God has made that person.
But in celebrating the birthday of the BVM, the passage that is chosen from the gospel of Matthew talks about Joseph intending to call off the marriage with Mary, and the angel of the Lord had to intervene.
Somehow the gospel passage for this liturgy seems a bit inappropriate, maybe even a bit too profane.
Yes, Mary's fears came true in that Joseph wanted to call off the marriage, and that might leave her to face an uncertain and even dangerous future.
Yet, the humanity, the humanness, of Mary and Joseph are highlighted to show us that they too had to face their fears and worries and anxieties, when it comes to doing God's will.
In fact, fear has that ability and that potential to paralyze us from doing God's will and to walk in His ways.
Yet, let us remember that as in the Annunciation, Mary was told "Do not fear"; in today's gospel, Joseph was also told "Do not fear".
As we gather for the Eucharist, we are also told "Do not fear", because God is with us.
Yes, we need not fear, because we also have a heavenly Mother who is always praying for us.
Yes, Mary knows the power of fear, but she also knows the power of prayer.
As we celebrate the birthday of our Blessed Mother, let us join her in prayer to pray for ourselves, for the Church and for the world. And what better way to do it than to pray the Rosary with our Lady. And not just today but everyday.