This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together she was found to be what child thought the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. Matthew 1: 18-19
Let’s start with a little history. There are three steps to a Jewish marriage.
Step 1: The families agree to the union
Step 2: They make a public announcement
At this point the couple are pledged to each other. This is like our present day engagement, except that this pledge can only be broken through death or divorce.
Step 3: The couple gets married and begin to live together.
Mary and Joseph were engaged. Mary’s pregnancy carried a sever social stigma. According to Jewish civil law, Joseph can divorce her and the authorities could have her stoned to death.
Joseph was known as a righteous man. What does it mean to be righteous? It means right thinking, feeling, speaking, and behavior on the par of disciples of the kingdom, who do what God commands and approves.
Do you live a righteous life? Do you obey God? Do you study and listen to God’s word? Here is a little challenge – Who told Joseph that Mary was pregnant? When you find the answer share it with me, I would love to have the verse.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for allowing us to take the time and read and learn about Jesus birth. Help us to seek truth.
In Jesus name
Amen
