Small Wonder: A Christmas Devotional JourneySample

Costly trust

During Advent, we celebrate the wonderful news of Immanuel, God with us. But it didn’t seem such wonderful news to Joseph at first.

Mary, Joseph’s fiancée, is found to be pregnant. Joseph, who consistently seeks to do the right thing, even if he may get the opposite reputation, has plans for a quiet divorce. At the time, the stages towards marriage meant Joseph could already be referred to as her husband – their engagement was legally binding, with divorce being the only way to end it.

Later, Joseph hears personally from an angel, and having heard the news himself, he knows Mary is far from unfaithful. She is being obedient to God. Joseph, once again, responds by prioritising right action over reputation. In the end, his actions form an essential part of the wonderful news for all of us.

Joseph provides helpful challenges that might be poignant for some today. How do we respond to unexpected or unwanted news in our daily lives? This is so often a key test of our character and our priorities. Joseph always tried to respond in the right way.

As the story unfolds, we have proof that we can trust God beyond our immediate circumstances. You might find it helpful to listen to the song 'Before' by Boundless to reflect on this aspect of trusting God before we receive the news we seek, trusting in him in every unknown.

Prayer

Lord, whatever comes my way today, help me to learn from Joseph. Help me to trust in You. Whenever there is a tension between good reputation and good actions, help me to prioritise the latter.