During the month I’ve spent a great deal of time considering the vital role of Zachariah and Mary to the birth narrative of Jesus. Their historic position in the story is a foundational building block to the efficacy of our redemption position.
And now, as we move toward Luke 2, I am focused on omission, not inclusion. Specifically, the omission of Joseph in any of the story line I’ve considered or highlighted.
Joseph. The fiancé of Mary. Joseph the lineage link to King David. Joseph, the man who dealt with the devastating news about his beloved with grace, dignity and courage. Joseph.
Yet Joseph, in the most comprehensive narrative of the birth of Christ is virtually absent from the story. The only reference in Luke 1 occurs in verse 26…
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. (Luke 1:26,27 ESV)
A bit part. A footnote.
Behind the curtain. A stagehand on the most substantial Broadway hit of all time. Joseph.
Inconspicuous but present. A steel rod in the backbone of a teenage virgin. A stabilizer on a turbulent sea.
A provider. Bread winner. Husband. Father.
As a part of every move of God, there are those who faithfully and anonymously stand strong. Step in. Stand up…
Joseph was an escort, an usher, a guide to the most consequential story ever told.
Before John The Baptist articulated his calling as “He must increase, and I must decrease…” Joseph was living it. As the husband to the mother of God. As a non-biological father to the son of the most high. As the bread winner to the bread of life.
We learn a great deal from Luke by who he spotlights in Luke 1, and who the spotlight omits. No accidents. No unintentional oversights.
Joseph shows the way for the rest of us. None of us will be like Mary. But we can all be like Joseph.
Behind the scenes, but strong and present.
Faithful and kind.
Wise and humble.
Loyal and true.
Called and courageous.
A bit part for the ages.
Once again, Luke shines the light where illumination is needed. And that includes the parts of the stage he leaves black.
Joseph. Our model in humility. Our example in selfless support.
Sometimes by what is written. And most of the time… what happens without notice.
Mission true. Joseph.
Bring it on. Christmas is here.
I’m ready now.
You?
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