Matthew 1:24
New Living Translation
24 When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife.
Though Joseph has not been given the same level of notoriety as Mary, he was equally devoted to God.
Verse 18 says that Mary was ‘found’ with child, implying that the pregnancy was observed by Joseph. And this is after she had been away visiting Elisabeth for three months! Certainly Joseph would have found it difficult to believe in a virgin birth and he must’ve thought about how all of these events seemed so impossible as well.
Mary was a special woman with an equally special young man for her fiance.
How many men would have believed such an incredible story even if it had been uttered by the most powerful angel? It took more faith on Joseph’s part than it did on Mary’s.
The message is often not what it seems. Those who hear the word second-hand have to exhibit more faith than those in attendance when God Himself shares His vision or call with them directly.
Recently, Sue and I had a similar experience. The Lord spoke to me that our assignment at the Vineyard church in San Carlos Ca. was over. We had it great there. A beautiful church building. A nice salary. Wonderful people to lead. And we were just at the point the church had started growing again.
I knew Sue would not believe me that we were done there. So I had to wait for the Lord to speak to her. A few months later He did, and we were told to come to Mesquite.
The scriptures don’t mention whether or not Mary ever attempted to convince Joseph of the truth. What would have been the use? Only God could make someone believe a story like this. It is to Mary’s credit that she trusted God and to Joseph’s credit that he believed God. Today, do as the Lord bids you and trust God to take care of the rest.
Blessings!
Pastor Duke
Pastor Duke Taber and his wife Sue pastor Mesquite Worship Center located at 140 Riverside Rd. Ste D. in the Sherwin Williams Building. You can join them Sunday’s at 10:00 AM, 6:00 PM and Wednesday’s at 7:00. Absolutely everyone is welcome and you can come as you are.
