Devotion:
Read Matthew 1:18-25.
We really do not have many details about Joseph of Nazareth. A reference to Jesus as “the carpenter’s son” lets us know that Joseph was a carpenter or worker of wood. The Bible’s last mention of Joseph comes when Jesus was twelve and remained behind at the temple in Jerusalem, causing Joseph and Mary to worry, search, and find him. Later references to Jesus’ family include his mother, brothers, and sisters; but no further mention is made of Joseph. This leads many Bible scholars to conclude that Joseph died early, leaving Jesus to work for a time to support the family.
Today’s passage gives us more insight into the character of Joseph than any of the other brief stories. Upon learning that the woman to whom he was legally betrothed was pregnant, Joseph had a decision to make – either to publicly accuse Mary and see her disgraced or divorce her quietly. Joseph had decided upon the kinder choice. He chose well, but the angel from God explained Mary’s innocence and offered Joseph an unthinkable choice...to complete the marriage to Mary and become the child’s earthly father. Joseph took that option, choosing even better. To me, Joseph reminds us of the important point that sometimes we are known and remembered for one thing we do in our lives.
Personal Worship Option:
How would you like to be known and remembered? Pray today for the will, faith, and guidance to be the kind of person you want to be known and remembered as. Like Joseph, we cannot be that person on our own, but with God’s help, we can.
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