Matthew 1:18-25
Reading 1
Matthew 1:18-25
18 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. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 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. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:
23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Immanuel”
(which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.
A few days back Luke’s writing was considered. The obvious differences between Luke and Matthew are the the perspectives the two men originate from when writing. While Luke places focus on Mary, Matthew place focus on Joseph.
Interesting in Matthew’s account is how careful he is to account for the humility and nobility of Joseph. In both gospel writings I have always appreciated the reality brought to the text. God choose Mary and Joseph to be a part of one of the most important events in history and they both have much to process regarding the situation and events. I have always thought Jospeh’s response is note worthy. Given the information Joseph has and the time line from which he responds and reacts his example serves as encouragement. He displays traits of humility, honor, and reason. Joseph is a Godly man.
In my sermon yesterday the point was made about a common trend we all face regarding a constant movement of a preverbal line in life. The idea is a lie. The idea that if this or that could just be accomplished then all would be well.
I am glad Joseph choose to listen and react in a faithful way. When faced with what I assume would have been heart breaking news of Mary’s pregnancy he keeps a calm perspective. God aided him through an angelic visit allowing him the choice to decide if he was going to thrive in the moment for the glory of God or proceed with his plans. I’m glad he choose God’s way verse his own. This is an example and challenge for me. What choices this week will God give me and like Joseph will I keep a mind that is open, reasonable, and willing to faithful act in the ways God leads?
