The Men of Christmasনমুনা

The Stage for Everything That Follows

It is the end of our week of devotionals on Christmas. A celebration of the Son of God uniting with His Creation to restore what was broken long ago.

This week, we have looked at some of the men involved in the events of the first Christmas, allowing them to show us what it means to embrace the Savior—accepting that God may call us into difficult situations, obedience in the face of that difficulty, joy at the elimination of fear, faithfulness in the long waits, and flexibility facing the unknown.

Embracing the Savior is certainly not stepping into an easy life. This week, we have seen that Joseph knew this better than anyone.

Previously, he rushed his family out of Bethlehem to safety in Egypt, out of the reach of a mad king who would resort to infanticide to keep his power. It’s unlikely that Joseph thought fleeing for their lives would be a part of the role of raising the Messiah—after all, the Messiah was supposed to save, not need saving.

We’re not told how long they were in Egypt or how they survived, although the wealth provided by the gifts of the magi certainly would have helped.

It’s incredible how God provides in unexpected ways. The gold, frankincense, and myrrh were not simply honorariums brought to the toddler King. They were, in essence, cold, hard currency that set up the young family in a good position.

Eventually, the coast was clear, and Joseph was again visited by an angelic dream and told to take the family back to Israel. It’s difficult to be a Jewish Messiah living in Egypt. So, obedient yet again, Joseph took his family home.

His role was pivotal, even if largely unsung. Joseph provided for and protected Jesus so that when the time was right, Jesus would step into his earthly ministry.

Joseph’s faithful actions set the stage for everything to follow. If, at any point, he had decided he knew better, the story of Jesus would have looked different. God still would have worked His plan of salvation, but Joseph may not have had a part in it.

God chooses to work through people, but it’s up to us to cooperate. Joseph shows us what a faithful man looks like.

Prayer: Father God, You have not called me to raise the Messiah, but You have given me family and friends to whom I represent You. Thank You for what You have called me to. Help me to step into my role and cooperate faithfully with You. Amen.

Reflection: What are your biggest obstacles to faithfulness to God? Make a plan to address them one at a time with the help of the Spirit.

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