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"Abiding in Christmas: Daily Advent Thoughts" by Bryan Craig

DAY TWENTY

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:18-21 ESV)

I’ve always thought Joseph was an unsung hero in the story of Jesus. Sure, his family lineage qualified him for this amazing role as it satisfied the prophetic scriptures saying the King would come from the line of David. But he seems like an innocent bystander as his fiancée Mary becomes pregnant, and he knew he was NOT the father. Imagine his disappointment, embarrassment, and the feeling of betrayal. And yet, he planned to break off this engagement quietly, so as not to cause Mary harm. He must have really loved her.  

In the midst of his anguish, a heavenly host visits Joseph in a dream, and tells her the father of this child is the Holy Spirit. Still, Joseph must have been so confused. Yet, this man of faith accepted this inconceivable notion and fulfilled his role with honor.

APPLICATION: Is there something in your life that hurts, or doesn’t seem fair, or is challenging your faith in mankind or even in God? Perhaps things are not what they seem. Ask the Lord to give you His perspective, for He has a knack for bringing beauty out of ashes.