Quiet at the Holidays
Because Joseph her [Mary’s] husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
—Matthew 1:19–21
One of the quieter figures in the Christmas story is Joseph, who was engaged to Mary. History hinged on his character and important decision once he heard that Mary was expecting a child. In Bible times, he could have ended the engagement to not cause himself humiliation, but that would have meant certain public shame for Mary as a single mother.
While he pondered what to do in this life-changing dilemma, an angel from God appeared to him in a dream, called him by name, and told him not to be afraid, because God had a divine birth planned through Mary. The angel went on to say that Mary was to give birth to the child, and Joseph was to call Him Jesus. Tomorrow we’ll find out what Joseph did.
Today think about the quiet people in your family and in the world who are struggling with big decisions, unexpected events in their lives, or difficulties. Pray for one person you know who is struggling this holiday season.
Dear God,
Today I want to keep up with my own plans, but help me to see who to pray for who is struggling in his or her life. Give _______ (name) wisdom and peace in this season. Amen.
Holiday Tip: Keep your Christmas card purchasing simple by using only one card design, and review your address list to know how many stamps, cards, and return address labels you’ll need.