“…Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit…you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” —Matthew 1:20-21
Joseph, born in Bethlehem, was a righteous man in the line of King David. His account appears at the beginning of Matthew’s Gospel against the backdrop of an incredible dream, and then he essentially disappears, save for a couple of brief appearances during Jesus’ childhood. Joseph doesn’t even have a speaking part in the Bible. Not one word.
We do know that when Joseph is visited by an angel, like Mary, he says “yes” to God. He does not dismiss Mary quietly, as would have been expected. Instead, he comes alongside her, joining the scandal and shame of her mysterious pregnancy. He commits his life to her and Jesus, and to whatever the future will hold.
What can we learn from a biblical character who has so little to say? Looking to his actions, Joseph appears to be one who faithfully listened to the Lord, followed God’s guidance and spent his life near to Jesus.
When it comes to God’s mission in the world, each of us is called to be like Joseph: people who faithfully listen for God’s voice, follow His directions and live in close proximity to Jesus. Some of us might find ourselves in the spotlight, serving God in more public ways. Many more of us will serve behind the scenes—through prayer, generous giving, words of encouragement, the ministry of presence and more.
What are some of the ways God has invited you to faithfully follow Him? How might God use your unique gifts, experiences and skills to help create Gospel access for those who have not yet heard the Good News? May you experience the nearness of Immanuel as you faithfully follow Christ!
Access resources to help you + your church engage the world’s least-reached peoples at frontierfellowship.com/tools
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