Matthew 1:19

New International Version (NIV)

Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

For Meditation

The reaction of Joseph to Mary’s pregnancy never ceases to amaze me (Matthew 1:18-19). It shows the heart of this godly man and makes him a unique example for all of us. 

There are too many rushed judgments, horrific name-calling, and shaming in relationships when one spouse offends the other. Regrettably, the unforgiving partner may do much worse in the mirror of righteousness. They may carry along the marriage, multiple sidekicks no one knows about. Yet, they jump at their spouses and demand some of the worst punishment society prefers. Like Shylock in William Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice, demanding a pound of Antonio’s flesh, most spouses demand retribution on their mates in ways unimaginable.

It is refreshing to consider Joseph’s attitude towards Mary when he found her to be with child when their relationship was just espousal, especially with the law on his side (Deut. 22:20-21). 

Because Joseph, her husband, was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly (Matt. 1:19).

What a man! What nobility!

People of noble minds do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, they consider others better than themselves. They don’t look only to their selfish interests but to the interests of others (Phil. 2:3-4).

There is always a backstory that is helpful to the seeker before deciding on a course of action. Mary’s situation had an extraordinary backstory that Joseph needed to know, and God opened it to him in a dream.

“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (20-21).

Mary’s conception was divine and the baby she was carrying was the Son of God.  

When God speaks to a situation, noble minds don’t flinch. They faithfully embrace God’s word and move swiftly on it. Their faithfulness goes before them. Joseph did what the angel said and took Mary home for his wife (24). 

That is the Joseph example for us for the season—a season of self-giving and blessing to others who are vulnerable, needing a firm hand to uphold them in Christ. That’s the spirit of Christmas, so let’s share it. 

Shalom.