That First Christmas

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Scripture: Matthew 1:18-21 (NIV)

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.”

Devotion:

In the midst of the Christmas season, filled with joy and celebration, it is easy to overlook the profound faith and courage exhibited by the individuals at the heart of the nativity story. Matthew 1:18-21 brings to light the remarkable trust and obedience of Joseph, a man faced with an extraordinary situation.

Joseph, betrothed to Mary, discovers she is with child by the Holy Spirit. This revelation must have been bewildering and deeply troubling to him. In a society where honor and reputation were paramount, Joseph's decision to divorce Mary quietly reflects not only his righteousness but also his deep compassion. He did not want to expose her to public disgrace or severe consequences, which speaks volumes about his character and his concern for Mary's well-being. His compassionate response in a challenging situation is a powerful example for us all.

However, as Joseph contemplates his decision, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream with a message that changes everything. The angel addresses him as "Joseph, son of David," reminding him of his royal lineage and the divine plan unfolding before him. The angel instructs Joseph to take Mary as his wife and reassures him that the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the divine nature of the situation and the reassurance of God's plan. This divine encounter fills us with awe and reverence for the unfolding of God's plan.

This divine encounter requires Joseph to exercise immense faith. He is asked to trust in God's plan, despite the confusion and potential judgment from others. Joseph's willingness to embrace this role demonstrates his unwavering obedience and trust in God's word. His acceptance of Mary and the child, whom they would name Jesus, signifies his participation in the fulfillment of God's promise to save His people from their sins.

As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the paramount importance of faith and obedience in our own lives. Joseph's story not only encourages but also inspires us to trust in God's plans, even when they seem beyond our understanding or when we face societal pressures. His example teaches us to respond with compassion and righteousness under challenging situations, motivating us to emulate his unwavering faith and obedience. This inspiration fuels our own journey of faith and obedience.

Prayer:

            Lord, we thank you for Joseph's appearance in the birth narrative of Matthew’s Gospel. He clearly was a man of deep faith and complete trust in you. Teach us to live like Joseph. We pray that we will see and do the things you have prepared for us to do. Let us spread the joy and happiness of the season with all we meet. Lord, help us to walk in the way of faith and trust in you that Joseph displayed. Amen.

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