PODCAST
A Choice to Make
December 14th, 2021
Matthew 1:18-25
Have you ever been convinced of something so much you were absolutely certain of the reality of your belief? A few years ago there was a debate on social media concerning a picture of a simple dress: was it white and gold or blue and black? Such radically different answers seem impossible, but many were convinced the colors they saw were the real deal.
Joseph was faithful to God’s word and lived as a believer. However, when he discovered that Mary was expecting before their marriage, he was undoubtedly faced with a decision. According to the law, he could have made Mary’s life very hard, but he “had in mind to divorce her quietly” (v. 19c). He was within his right to do so, and still remain within the parameters of the law set by God.
Then God sent an angel with a message: “do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife” (v. 20c). God’s message seemed contrary to everything Joseph knew about God and God’s law. He had a choice to make. We can all be thankful for the faithfulness of Joseph—his attentiveness to God was an important part of Jesus’ life!
Author: Stefanie Hendrickson
