Focus
Take time to rest in the comfort of the Lord today.
Read
Matthew 1:18-25 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet:
“Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall name him Emmanuel,”
which means, “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.
Reflect
What about Joseph? We spend much of our time focusing on Mary and Jesus during the Advent season, but Joseph had made plans that were changed drastically – and not by him. He was engaged (bethrothed) to Mary, then after the wedding they would begin their life together, building their family and living the typical Jewish couple’s life. I envision Joseph daydreaming about having a large family with many sons so that he could build up the family business, Joseph & Sons Carpenter Shop.
Those dreams were now shattered at the news of Mary’s pregnancy. Joseph’s world was falling apart. He knew what he had to do – divorce her quietly. However, as with Mary, God’s messenger visited Joseph to reassure him and guide him.
Have you ever been in a situation where you didn’t know what to do or you knew what to do but you didn’t know how you were going to do it? Listen to the Lord, for His still, small voice, to give you assurance and guidance, just as He did for Joseph.
Pray
Thank you, Great God, that You still speak to us. During this season of Advent, as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of Your Son, may we take Your Peace, Hope, Joy, and Love of the season and live each throughout the coming year. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Go with God!
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