AdventSample

An obedient love

Joseph was a righteous man living in a culture where honour and reputation were the currency of social standing. Mary’s unexpected pregnancy was about to become a tier-one scandal. Joseph had the right to end the betrothal to preserve his honour. Mary would be cast out, and his reputation would remain untarnished.

Into this moment of tension and fear, God sent an angel to Joseph in a dream. The child Mary was carrying was from the Holy Spirit, and Joseph was not to abandon her but to take her as his wife. There’s more. Joseph was entrusted with the sacred responsibility of naming the child Jesus. Joseph’s response was immediate, humble and obedient. He embraced Mary and the child, exposing himself to suspicion, ridicule and even the possibility of formal censure from a community quick to judge and condemn. Joseph chose faith over fear, and trust over reputation. God’s love often calls us away from reputational safety or social acceptability. It may require us to stand with those who are misunderstood or to obey God when others question our choices. Like Joseph, we’re invited to trust that God’s purposes are greater than our fears.

This advent let us embrace a love that acts with courage rather than rests in safety. Let us choose God’s path especially when it costs us. In doing so, our lives reflect His heart and we become instruments of hope for a world in need of grace.

Written by DWAYNE JEFFRIES