If you only had Matthew's Gospel, what would you have?

Last week we looked at the opening of Luke's Gospel and his version of the Advent narratives, his "orderly account." He begins with Zechariah and Elizabeth and the birth of John the Baptist who would come to prepare the way, then on to Mary and the miracle birth. But if you only had Matthew, what would you have?

No Annunciation to Mary

No visit to Elizabeth and the Magnificat

No detail on John's miraculous birth

No enrollment calling people to Bethlehem

No over-crowded inn

No stable, manger, sheep or cattle lowing when the baby wakes

No boisterous angel choirs or adoring shepherds

If you only had Matthew, what would you have? You would have Joseph.

Across the ages we venerate Mary and sing about shepherds who watched their fl…