A Note From the Pastor…
The Gospel of Matthew begins with a “Genealogy of Jesus Christ,” and concludes Chapter 1 with the birth of Jesus. However, one of the most fascinating parts of the account is Joseph’s reaction to Mary expecting a child. “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly,” (Matthew 1:18-19 ESV). I am always drawn to the end of verse 19 – “being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame.”
Mary had no reason to be ashamed, because this child, and His conception, was of God – yet we learn something about how to handle difficult situations in a “just” way. Joseph could have strived to “shame” Mary – and according to Mosaic Law, he could have even had her stoned. We find him in scripture “considering these things” until an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream to reassure him of all things. In reality, it appears Joseph was always going to choose a “just, merciful, and loving” way forward, no matter what – because he was a just man in actions and in heart.
In today’s world – it seems we rarely choose the “just way.” Rather, people today rush to social media to publicly expose any perceived wrongdoing to themselves – we run to friends to share gossip about the latest “dirt” – or we seek out family to try and “reassure” us that we bear no guilt, (striving to resolve ourselves of any guilt or to convince others of “our side”). The truth must always be proclaimed – yet we are not called to be “judge, jury, and executioner.” May we always allow love, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit to lead us forward – instead of allowing hurt, hate, and vindictiveness to take control! Colossians 3:12 reminds us, “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,” (ESV). Amen and amen!
Pastor Chris
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