Yesterday's readings marked a change of tone in our preparations for the coming of Christ. They began to focus on his first coming which we will joyfully commemorate this day week. Yesterday's Gospel, however, is somewhat formidable. It consists of a long list of names with which we are not, alas, too familiar.

In Chinese the list becomes daunting; even the most competent of readers must face it's unusual combinations of characters with a certain trepidation.

To-day's Gospel, however, shines out in lovely, clear simplicity. It is not, of course, without its quota of human fears and problems. Joseph was a good man, upright and honourable yet, at the same time, considerate and compassionate. It must have taken courage and trust for him to continue his engagement to Mary. He deserves our gratitude for playing his part in the dramatic events that ensured that God would be with us and would save us from our sins.

As we ponder the first reading we could well feel a similar surge of gratitude at the promise of approaching relief for the people of Israel. The relief will come in the person of a wise and reliable ruler who is to foreshadow an even greater one to come.

To confirm our joy we could look at the beautiful verses beginning with Isaiah 7:14. They too, promise help for some and hint at a sweeping tide of help for many. We here in the world of 2009 are among the "many".