Great and Getting Better!
Christmas in July — Joseph
The story of Jesus’ birth often centers on Mary, angels, shepherds, and wise men, but Joseph’s obedience was critical to the unfolding of the story of the birth of Jesus. His quiet faith and willingness to follow God’s divine direction secured a safe, nurturing earthly home for the Messiah.
When Joseph, a carpenter by trade, learned that his betrothed, Mary, was pregnant, he faced a crisis of faith and societal expectation. Being a righteous man, he chose compassion over public disgrace and resolved to call off the wedding quietly.
But God intervened. An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, delivering the news that the child in Mary’s womb was conceived by the Holy Spirit. The angel instructed Joseph to take Mary as his wife and to name the child Jesus, which means “the Lord is salvation.” In naming the child, Joseph was formally claiming Jesus as his own son, stepping into the role of His earthly father and legally establishing Jesus in the lineage of King David.
Joseph’s waking response is a powerful show of faith. He did not let fear of scandal or the daunting responsibility of raising the Son of God paralyze him. Instead, he immediately obeyed. He embraced Mary as his wife and faithfully protected her through the grueling 80-mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem for the census.
When the time came for the birth of Jesus, Joseph was right there. In the humblest of circumstances — a quiet stable — Mary gave birth, and Joseph obediently bestowed the name Jesus upon their newborn. Through all the subsequent dangers, including their flight to Egypt to escape King Herod’s wrath, Joseph continued to be the steadfast protector and provider his family needed.
As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, let us also honor the remarkable faithfulness of Joseph. He reminds us that true righteousness often looks like quiet obedience, stepping up when it is difficult, and trusting completely in God’s overarching plan. Joseph was willing to set aside his own plans and reputation to embrace God’s will.
This “Christmas in July,” let us seek to emulate Joseph’s quiet strength. May we be a people of grace, willing to trust God’s guidance even when the path ahead is uncertain or unconventional, and may we boldly welcome the Savior into our lives.
Matthew 1 and Luke 2
Remember, God loves you and I love you, and that is the way it is going to be!
Marshall Swindall
Boiling Springs Church of Christ