December 24, 2015
Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:24-25
24When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Questions for Reflection:
When Joseph awakens from his dream, how does he respond? We talked earlier this week about the character of Joseph. This short passage gives further evidence to the nature of Joseph’s integrity. Joseph went and married Mary and brought her back to his home (perhaps to a home they shared with his extended family). However, he did not “consummate their marriage” until later. Joseph not only was obedient, but he was patient and disciplined as well.
This passage does give us clarity around one issue that is often discussed this time of year. Mary was a virgin when she married Joseph. The Bible teaches that she was a virgin when Jesus was born. However, the word “until” in verse 25 suggests that Mary did not stay a virgin perpetually. Does it change the power of Christmas or the story of Jesus’ life and ministry if she was not perpetually a virgin?
Finally, notice who names the baby. While Joseph may not have biologically fathered Jesus, he will play a significant role in raising him. Fathers in the Jewish homes of biblical times named the children. Their names carried with them a message. The name, Jesus, was common in biblical times. It was the equivalent of Joshua in our day. The name (like the name Joshua) means God saves. Jesus name was a picture of what God would do for humanity. Through a little baby born 2000 years ago, salvation was brought to us. Spend time today worshipping God for the incredible gift of Jesus.