And There Was Joseph

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…"

 Matthew 1:20a

I would like to know more about Jesus’ earthly father, wouldn’t you? He and Mary were already betrothed, which was virtually a done deal for marriage. During the pre-wedding days, he remained committed and faithful to Mary. I imagine that he probably endured some criticism, verbally or indirectly.

The ultimate test of his love and loyalty to Mary surely must have occurred during that trek from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Artists’ renditions of this journey picture Mary on a donkey with Joseph walking beside them. Perhaps, realizing that the birth was imminent, he would gently guide and encourage her. Can we give him an "Atta Boy?"

How would you handle this type of prenatal activity? Okay, I’m confessing upfront. I can just hear me trudging up and down those rocky roads groaning and moaning.

But no! Mary was visited by an angel and knew that this baby she was carrying was the son of God. And so did her husband. God had spoken to him in dreams, so he was well aware of the baby about to be delivered to this earth. He had a heavy responsibility.

The delivery room was certainly not what either of them would have chosen, but Joseph didn’t stop searching until he realized that the time was short. A caring innkeeper offered the stable. Were Mary and Joseph envisioning a very different place for this baby boy?

Put yourself in this picture. What are you thinking? When this tiny baby entered this world, did he look like a Messiah? Have you found in your own journey that the places where God leads you aren’t what you thought they would be?

Dear Father, how I praise You for your tender loving patience when I question your plan. Forgive me. I truly do want to live as You lead me even when I am following, but kicking and screaming as we go.

Lynda