Dec 8, 2024

Pastor Marco Ambriz

When we move too fast, we are at risk of harming ourselves and others.

The Consequences of Speeding

• Greater potential for loss of control

• Reduced effectiveness 

• Increased stopping distance

• Increased degree of impact severity 

• Increased possibility of injury, death

• Economic loss

• Increased fuel consumption/cost

What Drives Speeding?

• Everybody’s doing it

• Running Late

• Anonymity 

• Disregard for Others

Everyday “Speeding”

• Working too much

• Phones, Screens, Social Media

• Busyness / Scheduling

• Spending / Buying

• Lack of sleep / rest

• Always trying to get ahead

• Not seeking advice

• No time for community

The Example of Joseph the Father of Jesus (Mt 1:18–24)

18 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. 20 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: 

    23      “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, 

    and they shall name him Emmanuel,” 

which means, “God is with us.” 24 When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife.

Lesson

Joseph could have quickly followed the Jewish law and condemned Mary for getting pregnant with someone other than himself. But he slowed down and listened to the direction of the Holy Spirit. 

In his sleep, his pausing, his rest, Joseph hears God tell him to continue with his marriage with Mary. At times, God speaks to us in dreams. It is another form of wisdom. 

Reflection

• Where might you be going too fast in your life?

• What harm could be at stake if you maintain this pace?

• Where do you hear God’s loving invitation to slow down?

• When do you sleep? When do you dream? We can’t dream if we don’t sleep. What about the dreams of what could be?