Matthew 1:21
“She will give birth to a Son; and you shall name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”
What an amazing privilege was given to Joseph. He was a humble carpenter who was starting out his life. He learned his betrothed wife was pregnant. She said it’s of God, but who could believe that. He doesn’t want to humiliate her, so he planned to send her away privately. Then this. He had a dream in which an angel assured him it’s ok. Continue with the marriage plans. This child who is to be born will be the messiah. He will save His people from their sins. That’s a shock.
God wants to partner with us in His plans. It’s like a child trying to assist his parent in a project. The child is getting in the way and slowing down the works. God doesn’t mind. He prefers it. The child is thrilled and grows in confidence.
God gives us all talents. He uses baby steps to teach us. It’s like an internship. We are partnered up with the master. God puts us in friendships and relationships for seasons or a season. It’s awesome to look back at the interconnected friendships that God provided. Up to this point Joseph was prepared by God to be a father, husband and a provider. He was probably a blessing to his community. A friend and a worker who could be relied upon. God does the same with us.
God is building, reaching and blessing. He wants us to be a part of that. He is the project manager. We may have a small part of this project, a bigger part of that one. He knows what He’s doing. Our knowledge is limited.
Joseph happened to be a part of a big one. Out of all the dads at that time or in history, he was chosen. That seems quite intimidating. I’m sure God guided him in similar ways that He has with us.
Joseph was in a unique situation. He was fathering the Son of God. The devil sought to destroy Jesus at many turns. Herod was one tool. Joseph was told to flee to Egypt for a time.
We get blessed with some credit. It reminds me of the business title Maui and Sons. Maui was the expert with all the knowledge and skill, but the sons got to get some credit as well as financial reward. So it is with us and God. He gets majority credit, but He allows some sunshine to fall on us. Psalm 23 says, “He prepareth a table for me in the presence of my enemies.” It’s like an honor banquet. He blesses us with some credit. We know that it’s all Him, but He likes to bless us.
God blessed Israel and wanted the world to see it. The reason was primarily for the world to fear God. It’s the same with us. We are to be His witnesses. He has blessed us, He can bless you, too.
Joseph seemed like a humble man. Never in the spotlight. Help us to be the same. Not seeking our own glory. You give it, but we aren’t to seek it. Thank You for using us; for including us in your plans.