Angels We Have Heard on HighНамуна

A CALL TO PROTECT

In Matthew 1:18-25, we witness one of the most profound moments in Scripture, where Joseph, a simple carpenter, receives a divine call to protect. The Christmas story is filled with unexpected turns, but Joseph's role is unique and vital to God’s plan. His journey teaches us that the call of Christmas is not just a call to celebrate; it is a call to protect what God has entrusted to us.

Joseph was faced with an overwhelming situation. His betrothed, Mary, was found to be with child, and Joseph, being a righteous man, sought to handle the situation quietly. His initial thought was to divorce her, protecting her from public shame while preserving his own reputation. But God intervened through an angel in a dream, calling Joseph to a higher responsibility: to protect Mary and the unborn Messiah, Jesus (Matthew 1:20).

This moment highlights the courage required in God's call to protect. Joseph had to set aside his fears, his personal reputation, and the opinions of those around him to fulfill God's greater purpose. Protecting Mary meant that Joseph would bear the weight of judgment from society, but more importantly, it meant that he would be safeguarding the very Son of God.

As we reflect on Joseph’s obedience, we are reminded that God's call to protect is often accompanied by sacrifice. Joseph’s decision was not just about shielding Mary from disgrace; it was about securing a future for the Savior of the world. He did not hesitate after the dream but took immediate action to ensure the safety of both Mary and Jesus.

This call to protect is not limited to Joseph’s story. It is a call that echoes throughout the Christmas season and into our own lives. As Christians, we are called to protect the things that God has placed in our care: our families, our faith, our communities, and even the vulnerable and forgotten in our society. Protection is an act of love, and it requires us to stand firm against threats, both seen and unseen.

In Joseph’s story, we see that protection goes beyond physical safety. He protected the dignity and honor of Mary, and later, he would protect Jesus from the threat of King Herod, fleeing to Egypt in obedience to another divine dream (Matthew 2:13). This act of protection fulfilled God’s plan and preserved the life of the Messiah.

The call to protect is a sacred responsibility, and as we prepare for Christmas, we must ask ourselves: What has God called us to protect? Is it a relationship, a truth, or a responsibility that we have neglected? Are we willing, like Joseph, to step into the unknown, trusting God’s plan and protecting what matters most?

This Christmas, may we embrace the call to protect with the same faith and obedience that Joseph displayed. Just as he protected the Savior, we, too, are called to guard the gifts God has given us and to reflect His love in our actions. In doing so, we honor the One who came to protect us—Jesus, our Immanuel, God with us.