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.
Joseph probably didn't go by 'Joe', but we'll translate him into the modern vernacular a bit this morning. Joe, the carpenter, had a day job, much like you and me. He went to work, perhaps griped about the boss, got told that he was the boss, and dealt with customers. Joe had the normal ration of hopes and dreams, one of which included a certain young lady by the name of Mary. Imagine Joseph coming home after a tough day's work, taking a bath, walking over to the future in-laws home for dinner, and getting called aside by Mary to receive some tough news: The future wife is expecting, and Joe had nothing to do with it.
To his credit, Joe did not want to take vengeance and put her out for public shaming, and this was before the angel arrived in his dream. Joe might have reacted in anger, felt the sting of humiliation, or harbored a root of bitterness, but he didn't. From among the children of David's line, God really chose the right man and woman for His earthly parents. Whatever your name is this morning, God chose you too, and He died to save you from your sins. You are one very special Christmas choice our Lord made!
Merry Christmas!Bucky
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