This week, we shared a reflection on Matthew 1:18-25. The story shows how Joseph’s acceptance and obedience are important because they show his faith and righteousness.
Background: Joseph, a carpenter from Nazareth, was betrothed to Mary. Before they came together, Mary was found to be pregnant. Joseph, a righteous man, initially planned to divorce her quietly to avoid public disgrace.
As Joseph considered this, an angel appeared to him in a dream. The angel explained that Mary’s pregnancy was from the Holy Spirit, and that the child she was bearing was conceived by divine intervention. The angel told Joseph that the child would be named Jesus and that He would save people from their sins.
After this divine revelation, Joseph accepted the angel’s message. He took Mary as his wife, despite the potential social stigma. By doing so, he accepted Jesus as his son and embraced his role as the earthly father of Jesus.
Very often in our lives, when we face any wrongdoings and we get hurt, we are quick to expose people publicly and not resolve it quietly. However, we reflected on how we can be like Joseph. When addressing issues, should we aim to do so in a way that encourages resolution rather than humiliation? Do we choose to air our distress/grievances to those around us, or can we show grace and love? What would Jesus do?
We were encouraged that when we choose resolution, it involves our faith, trust, and walk with God. Matthew 1:24 says that 'when Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.'
Just as Joseph trusted the angel’s message and accepted Mary as his wife despite the difficult circumstances, we should also strive to have faith and trust in God’s purpose and guidance in our life, regardless how difficult our situation may seem to be.
In closing, we also prayed over the young adults for their safety back to Singapore as they return after a week’s mission trip to Lombok with Marika. May we continue to be like Joseph, that despite a test of character in our daily lives, we will always pass that test.
Love,
RT1
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