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September 15th, 2022
Click Above to Listen
Scripture
Devotion
It still astounds me that nowhere in the Gospels that talk about birth of Jesus do we hear Joseph’s voice. In fact, as we search the Gospels, we discover that they do not contain a single word uttered from the mouth of Jesus’ earthly father. But, as some people say, actions often speak much louder than words! Through his silent actions, Joseph teaches us three valuable lessons:
First, we are introduced to Joseph in the middle of a personal crisis. He was engaged to a beautiful young girl and he had worked hard to establish an income to support his new bride and begin a family. He is committed to Mary. He believed she loved him, until he heard the news that his precious bride is pregnant. Before any divine explanation, Joseph chose mercy. Certainly he could have asked a lot of questions here, such as ‘How could you do this to me?’ or ‘Who’s the father?’ But no such words are recorded, only tenderness. He would not hurt Mary, no matter what he thought she had done. When he could have demanded a bitter sentence, he chose a righteous mercy. Joseph displayed righteousness and mercy. This righteous carpenter would help to raise God’s Son to be a merciful Savior.
Second, God gave Joseph a glimpse of His Divine plan in a dream. Because Joseph was a descendant of David and a righteous man, I believe God gave him the unique job of raising the Messiah. God told Joseph that Mary’s Son would, “save His people from their sins!” Jesus came to earth to redeem humankind, to save us from the penalty of our sins. God has done for us what we were unable to do for ourselves. He paid the price for our sins with the blood of His Son. He bought us back. He redeemed us. What an awesome gift! Can you imagine Joseph’s anticipation, knowing that he would be responsible for the upbringing of the most important child ever born? God is asking Joseph to raise the Savior as his own son. Most people would never accept that kind of challenge.
Third, there was no hesitation with Joseph. He understood clearly what God expected of him and was ready to obey! He would take Mary to be his wife and suffer the cutting remarks about a child conceived prior to their wedding. He would obey in spite of the fact that this child of divine promise would be born under a false cloud of adultery. He called his adopted son “Jesus,” just as he was told to do. Joseph believed God and obeyed Him.
Throughout this season, and throughout the rest of our lives, I hope that we will take with us the lessons we can learn from a simple carpenter who’d been given the greatest honor.
By Daniel Devadoss, Bible League International staff, India
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