Joseph could have dumped all the blame for the unexpected baby onto Mary (Matthew 1: 18-19). In that time and culture, women had no way to defend themselves against the claims and blasts of a man. But, he decided "to dismiss her quietly," without any big fanfare or public disgrace. Then, an angel (literally, God's messenger) kicked it up a notch and revealed to Joseph God's gift of"Emmanuel" (v. 23). So, Joseph and Mary got married.
Usually, the Advent and Christmas story revolves around Mary. These verses remind us that Joseph's attitude and spirit are key ingredients in God's work to come and live among us. This got me to thinking. Are there those in my frame of reference who seldom get honor and appreciation for what they have done? Who are the unrecognized laborers in God's purposes?
Brantley Campbell. He was custodian at my home church. The classroom and sanctuary space was always cooled or heated to a level of comfort. The rooms were clean. He would stick his head in the door just before worship started, just to make sure everything was in order. And he was never given public praise.
Pete Durham. He was a school classmate of mine. He was not elected to a class office. The only "Superlative" by his name in our senior yearbook is "Most Talkative." He was the one who befriended me as a newcomer second grader. He was the one who was a quiet "Yes" as I considered going into ordained ministry. And now, 69 years later, he is the one who stays in touch. But he has been given no great acclaim.
Iris Aybar. She was the first in her family to complete college. She studied child psychology and had a lucrative career ahead of her as a professional, but chose to work with underserved families with minimum finances. She has adopted stray animals. She has befriended folks of multiple ethnic heritages. But you will not see her name in Internet news.
Certainly we honor Mary, the mother of our Lord, but let us also recall with gratitude the unsung Joseph. The truth is that most ofus are more likely to be "Joseph" (seldom acknowledged servant of God) than we are to be "Mary ( celebrated as God's servant"). The story is not complete without both.
What Someone Else Has Said:
In Useppa (iUniverse ), Ken and Pat Birth describe Bob Sumwalt: "It says something about Bob that in all his years, Bob Sumwalt never won a singles trophy, but he partnered many winners in doubles. Bob doesn't know how to be self-centered."
Prayer:
As you prepare this lesson, let your prayer begin: "Thank You, Lord, for Joseph ... "
