We don’t know much about Joseph, but I think it’s safe to say he would have been terrible on a T.V. reality show. Think about it. His girlfriend was pregnant, and knowing the child was not his own, he could have slandered her name via social media (literally social), drunk too much wine, and wrecked a perfectly good donkey cart. Instead, he planned to quietly distance himself from her in a way that would maintain the dignity of everyone involved. No T.V. ratings there.
Once Joseph understood what was going on, he trusted both God and Mary, and did exactly what the angel told him to do. Over time, he proved he was the perfect father for Jesus, traveling long distances and making wise, careful decisions to keep his child safe. Going out of one’s way for the sake of another? Thoughtful decision making? Again, no ratings.
I am thankful for the example we have in Joseph, and I am thankful for his role in the Christmas story and beyond. I’m going to make it a point to follow his example more often and to make it known when others do the same. I hope you’ll join me.
I hope you are finding great happiness in this week of joy. If so, please share!
Though she was afraid and a little doubtful at first, Mary quickly embraced her role in what we now call the Christmas story. Once it was all explained, her simple reply was, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38)
Before the journey to Bethlehem, before the lack of adequate lodging, before the manger or the shepherds or the wise men, there was an angel speaking to a young woman. This is where our Advent story really begins. This is where the wonder and the mystery and the waiting all start. I began my Advent observance by placing an angel in the manger scene.
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