CHRISTMAS COURAGE

Matthew 1:24

“When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded…”

As we read the Christmas Story in Scripture and reflect on each verse it is amazing how courageous Mary and Joseph were as new parents.

We read in Matthew chapter one, Mary has been told by an angel that she is pregnant by the power of Holy Spirit and will give birth to the Messiah. Can you imagine the courage it took to tell her parents, siblings and soon to be husband?

And what about Joseph?

Can you imagine the talk and gossip in this small town?

Townsperson: Hey, did you hear about Joseph?

Joseph’s neighbor: No what?

Townsperson: His finance says she is pregnant by God and is the mother of the Messiah.

Joseph’s neighbor: How bizarre? You mean she is claiming a virgin birth?

Townsperson: That’s right, so she says.

Joseph’s neighbor: How embarrassing? Poor Joseph.

Joseph may have struggled with his doubts but then God reveals to him in a dream that Mary would give birth to the Messiah. He would have to choose to believe and receive the calling on his life as this baby Messiah’s earthly father.

He almost left her but then chose to remain.

Joseph had the courage to love and raise a son that was not really his own.

Mary had the courage to nurture and mother the Son of God.

Their conversations and observations must have been full of wonder and intrigue.

With courage Mary and Joseph humbly accepted the part they were given in God’s divine plan.  The one thing they both were required to do while they were courageous in their circumstances was to “wait on the Lord.”

How is your courage today?
Are you struggling with the "waiting on the Lord" part of life?

Whatever you are facing, Jesus has experienced it and promises to be with you through every moment.

Psalm 27:14

“Wait on the LORD. Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; 
  Wait, I say, on the LORD!”

Joshua 1:9

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Pray and ask Jesus to give you the Christmas Courage this season and always!