FRIDAY December 11, 2020
Joseph a Just Man
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.
Matthew 1:18-19
Joseph was a humble carpenter. Can you imagine the day when he found out Mary, his betrothed, was with Child? Joseph had a just character. He loved Mary, and he would secretly hide her. He would not publicly shame Mary, but shield her from public disgrace or exposure to any gossip, as much as he could possibly do––protect her. As a righteous man, he thought to separate himself from her, wanting to make sure things were handled in a righteous way before God.
Joseph thought about these things and became increasingly restless. In His faithfulness, God revealed His plans to Joseph. So there would be no confusion, He confirmed what had happened to Mary. God sent an angel of the Lord to appear to Joseph in a dream:
“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).
God helped Joseph to understand His perfect will. There was no sin involved in the conception of this Child. It was all a part of God’s wonderful plan! (Deuteronomy 22:23-24). As Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, she conceived the Messiah––it was a miracle––a divine mystery.
Infinite and yet an infant, Eternal, and yet born of a woman. Almighty, and yet nursing at a woman’s breast. Supporting a universe, and yet carried in a mother’s arms, heir of all things, and yet the carpenter’s despised son.
~C. H Spurgeon~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!