Reading with Meaning: Matthew 1-2

 

The first couple pages of Matthew gives us a brief overview of some of the events and circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus. While the story focuses Jesus' virgin birth and King Herod's power-hungry massacre that follows, what stood out most to me in the passage was Joseph and his complete obedience and trust in the Lord. Joseph's life was completely turned around, yet he remained so steadfast in his faith. Think of the shock, sadness, and even anger he must have felt when he initially discovered Mary's pregnancy, but when an angel of the Lord told him the truth of her pregnancy Joseph "did what the angel of the Lord commanded him"(Mtw 1:24) without questioning. Joseph would go on to move his family not once but twice on the Lord's command, leaving his home, business, and friends all behind. He never doubted the Lord's guidance. He trusted in God's plan for him, for his family so completely that he was willing to do whatever the Lord commanded of him.

 

We've all been through adversity and trials like Joseph, but can we say that we never let our challenges create cracks in our faith? That we wholly and completely trusted in the Lord, His plan, and His timing. I know for myself, the answer is a resounding no. If I were in Joseph's shoes, there would have been quite a few times where I would want to take the reigns and ignore God's command. But here's the thing: God's plan is always the best plan. If Joseph had done what his instincts were telling him, what he wanted to do, there is a very real possibility we would all be without our SAVIOR, which is kind of a big deal. Keeping our trust and faith in God's plan is something we have to consciously remember and choose to do every day. Every morning we need to turn our lives and to him and always remember that God works for our good(Rom 8:28)!