Hi
How is the shopping going? Not overspending are you? For truly, this season n is about celebrating the fact of Jesus’s life, not a shipping frenzy.
Here’s today’s nougat
But as he was thinking this over, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary [as] your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of (from, out of) the Holy Spirit. Matthew 1.20
Several prophesies and at least two divine visits later . . . Joseph is brought on board. He is at the brink of a very life transforming moment (yes a kairos moment)
He can claim this child which Mary purports has been conceived of the Holy Spirit, and face those consequences, or he can ignore convention.
Having prayed, the answer probably surprise him. For, in God’s response, it quickly becomes evident that even his ancestry is known by God and that it matters. Not even or birth order is incidental to God’s plan.
Perhaps the words of Jeremiah came rushing back to his memory, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord … Whatever it was he believed. And, having counted the cost, he chose.
It’s ironic, God doesn’t guarantee an easy road. Jeremiah’s prophecy was delivered to a people in exile. God guarantees hope and a future with God, and most of all to be with us through the storm, in exchange for radical life transforming faith. The preparation time allows us to count the cost and to make OUR choice. It isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
Are we ready for this?
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
