Why is it important to live an upright and holy life? Some might feel that it doesn't really matter - after all, who cares? Jeremiah has another view: God builds the future with the few that have remained true to the ways of the Lord. They are called the 'righteous branch,' and 'the Lord is our righteousness' is their guiding principle. Jeremiah prophesied so much disaster and destruction for Israel, and yet the righteous of the land gave him hope and a vision for the future. Let us always strive to be part of God's future.

Mary and Joseph were clearly part of the righteous branch - humble, upright, and totally open to God's will. When Joseph discovered that Mary was with child, he planned to send her away quietly rather than expose her to shame. The angel's reassurance in a dream gave him the courage and certainty he needed to take Mary as his wife.

Considering the pressure of society and culture at the time, this was not easy. God built a future for all humanity through the righteousness and openness of both Mary and Joseph. May we have the courage to always do what is right and pleasing to God, rather than what is expected by those around us.