The Faith of Joseph

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. Matthew 1:18-25

Steps: 11, 12

The story of Mary’s faith in accepting the fact that she would be the mother of Jesus the Messiah was truly impressive. It is also interesting to try to get some idea of what Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, went through as well. Mary was engaged to marry Joseph but before their wedding night it was found that Mary was pregnant. No one had ever heard of such a thing as the Holy Spirit overshadowing someone and that they would become pregnant with God. It was a struggle for Joseph to believe Mary’s story for he was not there to hear it for himself. So he was going to try to do the honorable thing and divorce her quietly. But while wrestling with these things Joseph slept and God blessed him with a dream and explained the situation to him and verified what Mary had experienced and more importantly it was explained to Joseph that all of this was done to fulfill prophecy. Prophecy, according to II Peter 1:16-21, is more dependable than what you can see and experience through your senses. Once Joseph got the message he immediately married Mary. He did not have sex with her until after her pregnancy was completed. They named the child Jesus which means Saviour. God also stated that they would call Jesus Emmanuel which means God with us.

Prayer for Today: God, it is totally amazing that people could go through with such an experience as Joseph and Mary did. It is truly wonderful what You are able to do, with people and in people. When it comes to be our turn, help us to remember some of these stories and to be able to trust you as these two wonderful people did. Help us to develop faith in You by reading stories about them and You. Thank You Lord for Your love for us.