Dreams
“Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream…” (Matthew 1:20)
“Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream…” (Matthew 1:20)
Years ago, I read a book entitled, Dreams: God’s Forgotten Language, by John Sanborn. In the book, the author mentioned how dreams can help us find healing and wholeness. In reflecting on our recent dreams, Sanborn says we should ask ourselves questions like, “God, what are you trying to teach me?” and “Where are you leading me?” Dreams can serve as encouragements, reminders, inspirations, and even warnings.
St. Joseph was one who took dreams seriously and carefully discerned God’s message through them. The Bible gives four accounts of the Lord speaking to Joseph through dreams, followed by Joseph’s obedience to God (Matthew 1:20-21, 2:13, 2:19-20, and 2:22).
Just as Joseph reflected carefully upon the messages he heard while sleeping, maybe we can take some quiet time during these final days of Advent to listen to God’s message to us, whether it is an encouragement, a reminder, an inspiration, or a warning.
How well do I listen to God in the silence?
Lord God, through the intercession of St. Joseph, help me to listen and discern your dreams for my life. Amen.
Deacon Rick Wells was ordained for the Diocese of St. Petersburg in 1997. A former Methodist, he was received into the Catholic faith in 1988. He currently works as Chancellor for the Diocese and serves at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Clearwater. Deacon Rick and his wife Barbara have been happily married for 35 years.
