Matthew 1:18-21

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20 But after he had considered 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 home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” - Matthew 1:18-21

Dear Heavenly Father,

I can relate to Joseph and how hard it was for him to believe Mary at first. People just don't get pregnant without physical relations. I'm moved by his desire to protect her reputation the best that he could even though he was deeply hurt (as he thought) by her. It shows that his righteousness by faith expressed itself in love. How often I think that righteousness expresses it's hurt in anger, but it doesn't. Help me to be like Joseph when I'm hurt by others. Help me to love them and protect their reputation instead of getting even through retaliation and gossip. How relieved Joseph must have been when your angel visited him with the truth. Thank you for giving Jesus two wonderful parents to help him save humanity by providing him a loving believer's home. Help me be that kind of home for your Son too, so he can reach my neighbors through me.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Rearing Jesus for us rocked Mary and Joseph's world. Don't be surprised when God rocks your world to help you reach others for him.

Additional Reading: Luke 1