“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS. Matthew 1:20-25
The Lord certainly desires to set up “God Moments” in our lives. That being said, can you imagine the absolute shock that must have gone through Joseph’s mind when he found out his soon to be wife was pregnant? Wow! That would definitely be something that would take some adjusting to. Nevertheless, God would surely make the newly discovered revelation into a “God Moment”. “Do not be afraid” was the counsel of the Lord. Comforting words yes. Comforting words not only for Joseph but for us as well.
This Holiday Season can be both a rejoicing time and a time of solemn reflection. Truly there are some among us that are being overwhelmed by their circumstances. Let us, who are rejoicing, not be afraid to partner with those that are hurting and encourage accordingly. Likewise as we approach one another, God help us to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit unto our lives. Either way it is time to listen closely to the words of the Lord. Indeed whether weeping or rejoicing, take a quiet moment to receive the words echoing deep within our hearts: “Do not be afraid”.
May the joy of the finished work of Jesus Christ be evident in your life. Have a blessed and Merry Christmas as our heavenly Father ministers to us both individually and corporately.
Lord, bless the body here at Calvary Chapel Jurupa Valley. Thank you Jesus for all that you have done. Holy Spirit, continue to guide and provide as the New Year looms. Amen!
Pastor Greg and Connie Rondeau