Read

Matthew 1:18-23

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).

Reflect

Today’s passage tells how God called Joseph and Mary to be the earthly parents of Jesus. Surely they must have asked themselves over and over what this would mean for them. We could hardly blame them if they wished God had chosen someone else!

In this Christmas season, take time to consider what God might be asking of you. It might not be spectacular but could be very important in the life of someone else…or in your own life.

Maybe it’s something you’ve been putting off because you’re not sure how it will turn out. Is there a relationship that needs mending? A habit to break – or develop? Something in your spiritual life you’ve felt called to change?

Maybe it’s something simple you’ve just been putting off way too long. A letter to write, or a phone call to make. A “thank-you” to someone who does something you appreciate at church.

Who knows? Maybe your action will become someone’s favorite gift this Christmas season!

Pray

O God, open our ears and our eyes to your call as we celebrate this special time of year. Give us the wisdom and strength to faithfully respond to what you ask of us.

Charmaine and David Detrow