And this is GOD'S moment--when the need is at its height, when both His children have proved their fidelity, and their readiness to abandon themselves to Him and His Will, cost what it may. In his sleep an Angel appears to Joseph and reveals the secret to him, and his sorrow is changed to an unspeakable joy. If I am striving to tread the way trodden by Mary and the Saints, I shall do well to let self-justification alone. I am not likely to be put to as great a test as were Mary and Joseph, but there are sure to be many little occasions in my life when it is left to my choice either to clear myself of suspicion or to leave the matter in GOD'S Hands, and out of love to Him keep silence, and thus sacrifice a little of my self-love. It is a difficult question, perhaps, when to keep silence and when to speak; but at any rate I need not be in such a hurry to excuse myself and shield myself from blame as I generally am. Nothing will be lost by _waiting_. Mary and Joseph _waited_, with the result that GOD Himself cleared things up for them and brought them consolation. If Joseph had questioned Mary, or if Mary had allayed Joseph's suspicions, both would have acted in a most natural way; but GOD would not have been glorified, and they would have missed the consolation which He reserves for those who are generous in their sacrifices to Him. _Colloquy_ with Mary. _Resolution._ To be silent the next time fault is found with me. _Spiritual Bouquet._ "Fear not, Joseph." Mary's Expectation "_His left hand is under my head, and His right hand shall embrace me._" (Cant. ii. 6.) "_My Beloved to me and I to Him._" (verse 16.) _1st Prelude._ Mary and Joseph waiting. _2nd Prelude._ Grace to believe that GOD'S plans are the best. _Point I._--AT NAZARETH