The Great Faith and Promise of God with Us

The Great Faith of Joseph

One of the central figures in the Christmas story is Joseph, the husband of Mary. Few people emphasize the importance of Joseph's faith, which is often overlooked in favor of the miraculous nature of the virgin birth. However, the Bible describes Joseph as a just and righteous man, someone who knows and cares deeply about God's word. "And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly" (Matt. 1:19). Joseph's faith is demonstrated through his actions, as he obediently follows the angel's instructions and takes Mary as his wife.

The decision to marry Mary, despite the scandal surrounding her pregnancy, comes at great cost to Joseph. He willingly bears the shame and protects Mary from public shame and harm. This act of mercy and compassion reflects the character of God, who would later take our shame upon himself through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.

Joseph's faith is commendable and serves as an example for us. It is through faith that we are made righteous in God's eyes, just as Joseph's faith made him righteous. This is that pattern that is set by both the Old and New Testament--righteousness comes by faith and not by works.

"And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness. (Genesis 15:6 )

"This righteousness is given through faith in[a] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile," (Romans 3:22).

Like Joseph, we are all called to believe in the promises of God and trust in his plan, even when it seems impossible or goes against societal expectations.

The Promise of God with Us

The central promise of the Christmas story is the fulfillment of the prophecy that the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and he shall be called Emmanuel, which means God with us. This in many ways is the center story that Scripture tells from beginning to end.

We can trace the theme of God's presence with humanity throughout the Bible, from the Garden of Eden to the tabernacle and temple. However, sin created a separation between God and humanity, making it impossible for us to be in his presence. The promise of God with us is the solution to this problem, as Jesus, the eternal God, became man to dwell among us.

The incarnation of Jesus is a profound mystery and a demonstration of God's love for us. Through Jesus, we can have fellowship with God and be united with him. This promise is not just for the time when Jesus walked the earth, but for all who believe in him. The Holy Spirit dwells within believers, and we can experience God's presence in our lives now.

The promise of God with us also extends to the future, as revealed in the book of Revelation. One day, we will see God face to face and dwell with him forever. This promise gives us hope and assurance, knowing that we will never be alone and that God is always with us.

Implications and Potential Impact

The themes of great faith and the promise of God with us have profound implications for our lives. They call us to trust in God's promises and live in obedience to his word. Just as Joseph's faith led him to take Mary as his wife, our faith should lead us to follow God's leading, even when it goes against societal expectations or seems impossible.

The promise of God with us also has a transformative impact on our lives. It gives us comfort and assurance, knowing that we are never alone and that God is always with us. This promise empowers us to live boldly and share the good news of Jesus with others. It reminds us that we are part of God's family and that we have a purpose in his kingdom.

Furthermore, the promise of God with us should shape our relationships with others. Just as Joseph showed mercy and compassion to Mary, we are called to extend grace and love to those around us. We are called to bear one another's burdens and reflect the character of God in our interactions with others.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, the themes of great faith and the promise of God with us are central to the Christmas story and the Christian faith. Joseph's faith serves as an example for us, reminding us of the importance of trusting in God's promises and living in obedience to his word. The promise of God with us gives us hope and assurance, knowing that we are never alone and that God is always with us.

As we reflect on these themes, let us be encouraged to deepen our faith and share the good news of Jesus with others. Let us live in obedience to God's word and extend grace and love to those around us. And let us eagerly anticipate the day when we will see God face to face and dwell with him forever.

May the great faith of Joseph and the promise of God with us inspire and transform our lives, as we seek to live out the gospel and bring glory to God.