Day 5 – December 1
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 ESV
Joseph found himself in quite a bind! He and his betrothed bride were in their customary waiting period before marriage when Mary was discovered to be pregnant. Joseph knew that he wasn’t the father of this child and the temptation would have been to expose her condition to the community and clear his name. Being a “just man”, he instead decides to separate from Mary quietly, keeping her from public shame. In his mind, this was the best, most compassionate solution to Joseph’s problem.
However, it turned out that Joseph’s “problem” was actually God’s plan. Joseph wasn’t facing this challenge alone. God understood his situation and the underlying fear and hurt that he was feeling. God saw Joseph. In addition to this encouragement, God further reveals that he is entrusting Joseph with a big responsibility: to be a father to this special child. To name him and protect him. Turns out this isn’t a “problem” for Joseph, it’s an honor and a blessing.
What a difference a little perspective can make in how we view the challenges we face in this life. What if those things which seem like “problems” and out of our control are actually “opportunities” and part of God’s plan?
Father, it is such an encouragement to me to know that you are fully in control. So often in this life, I find myself facing challenges that I didn’t ask for. Under my own strength, it’s easy to look for ways to ignore them or to give up. Oh, that I may trust in You more during periods of uncertainty! I can trust in Your plans without knowing all of their details. Amen.
Written by: Pastor Jason Mecum