King of Kings: An Advent Plan by New Life ChurchSample

Joseph is put into a pretty tough situation. When he hears that Mary is pregnant with a child that isn’t his own, he must be devastated. Of course we can see from our vantage point what is really going on, but Joseph? He was living out what is probably a newlywed’s worst nightmare. However, like Mary, Joseph is given a message by the angel of the Lord; and, like his bride, he responds with obedience and humility. We can learn so much from Joseph choosing to remain faithful even when things don’t appear the way he thought they would. 

Joseph will go on to raise the Child as his own and give him the name Jesus, just as the angel commanded. The name Jesus actually means “Jehovah is Salvation.” This is incredibly significant to understand because Jehovah is the proper name of God, meaning “The Existing One.” Here, salvation means “to be saved or delivered” particularly from moral struggles or failures. So even within this child’s name, God is telling people that He is real, He exists, and He is giving Himself to save us from sin. How incredible that Joseph’s obedience in the simple act of naming his child actually begins ushering in the good news of the gospel! Before Jesus is even old enough to speak, His name will declare His mission in the world. 

Application: Infinite power and hope are in the Name of Jesus. As the Church, we exist to lift up this Name above all other names! Today, invite Jesus into every moment of your day. Ask God what it looks like to honor Him in every task ahead of you. Remember that the Lord is for you and has come to you. He is your ever-present help for every need!