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Joseph, to whom she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly.

Matthew 1:19

Your Encouragement

[Joseph can’t make the head or tail of the matter. How could it be?]

“Mary, where are you? What am I hearing? Is it true? Are you truly with child?”

“Yes, Joseph … We are going to have a baby.”

“But I have not known you, Mary?”

“The who? The Holy Spirit? Are you out of your mind?”

[Hands sweeping air] “You must be kidding me! That’s it. I am done. It’s over, Mary. But don’t worry. I will be quiet about it.”

“Angel who? Not again with that ridiculous story, Mary. I wasn’t born yesterday, and you know it. I am still trying to recover from your Holy Spirit nonsense, so don’t add insult to the injury.

I said I will make the divorce as quiet as possible; so, don’t worry. I need my dignity as much as I intend to keep yours for the honor of the God of our fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”

“Joseph, son of David,” … “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit.And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”   

“O, my Lord! Forgive me. I, I …”

“Don’t worry, Joseph. Just do the right thing and receive the blessings the Lord has showered on your household.”

“Mary! O, Mary! Where are you? You are most blessed. How could I be that carnal? Forgive me dear. I am so sorry. I am all yours now and will be by your side till we see the face of the baby on your lap.

I don’t want to wake up, Lord. Let the wonder of your salvation prevail on me forever. Israel, here comes your Messiah!”

May the wonder of Jesus’ appearing awaken your faith today, as the Christmas season breaks on you; and may you find hope again to live and rejoice in His salvation – Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen!

Shalom