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.” (Matthew 1:20-21)

It’s interesting that God holds off on explaining anything to Joseph until Joseph has a chance to think it through, probably pray, and make the best decision he can. I mean, God could have said something weeks or months earlier, before Jesus was even conceived;—the way He did for Mary. But not this time;—not to Joseph.

It seems unfair. Why put him through such a test of faith? And yet, look at how marvelously he comes through! Joseph makes the kindest plan he can think of to deal with the situation;—and discovers that God has a different plan. And instead of complaining when God completely rearranges his marriage and family, Joseph simply gets on with it;—protecting and caring for the unborn Jesus and His mother Mary.

This makes me happy;—to see God the Father trusting His own dear Son Jesus to a human man to take care of; and to see that man taking up the job with such loving care and quiet kindness. No wonder the Son of both fathers is just the same;—looking after our welfare with patient love and mercy, even at the cost of His own life.

WE PRAY: Lord Jesus, make Your lovingkindness shine through me, too. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Have you ever had to deal with a messy situation as best you could?

* How did you decide what to do? Where did you find wisdom?

* When has God used someone else to care for you?

Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Archive

All | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 |

Large Print