Tuesday 16th December
Read Matthew 1:20-23
“But after he had considered this, 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, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’” (NIVUK)
Between the gospels we remarkably have the conversations of angels with both Mary and Joseph, Joseph not only being given the name but also the purpose of His coming. The challenge associated with Jesus’ scandalous birth is felt keenly by both Mary and Joseph such is their righteousness. In both instances divine intervention is required to bring life to God’s people and save them.
The concentration of dreams in the life of Joseph should cause us to reflect on the dreams granted to his namesake. Dreams that also showed how God would save His people and grant them life amidst death by lifting up a ruler. Joseph also refused to be engaged in sexual scandal (but ended up in jail regardless)! Jail turned out to be the precise place he needed to be in order to interpret the dreams of those who would bring him into the presence of Pharaoh. Israel found safety in Egypt, just as Joseph and Mary would.
We know how this story ends but place yourself in Joseph’s shoes ever so briefly and reflect on the faith required to listen to the word of God at this point in his life.
