eAdventWithMatthewDec15 - Betrothed to Joseph

   To us, getting engaged is romantic, a ring is purchased, the round of wedding planning begins.  But in Israel, betrothal was a legal bond.  To break an engagement was called "divorce," and immense shame was implied - as adultery was the common rationale for a breakup.  Today, movie stars marry already pregnant, and break up the way you select a vacation destination on a whim.

   Joseph had every good reason to cast Mary aside and retain what dignity he had left.  But he loved.  He believed her story, and put a lot of stock in a dream he had one night (Matthew 1:20).  His destiny?  We see him in Christmas pageants.  No acting ability is required.  He just stands sheepishly to the side, holding the reins of the donkey, gazing.  Not a man to be reckoned with.

   But he was near Jesus.  He did as he was commanded by the Lord.  He stuck with what he was stuck with:  he was committed.  He saw the miracle - and just to be near the wonder of God's love taking on flesh is enough, isn't it?

   Lord, I would be like Joseph:  full of love, belief, doing as I am told by You, committed - and living very near Jesus.

James

james@mpumc.org

The complete eAdventWithMatthew series can be found on our web site.