Scripture: ‘Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.’ (Matthew 1.18)Reflection:Mary, Jesus’ mother, plays a central part in the Christmas story, but what about her silent partner, Joseph? Imagine for a moment that your future partner is pregnant, the baby is not yours, and the child will save the world- all according to an angel who appears in a dream! This, the angel says, is God’s plan - go with it. And Joseph did - he stood by Mary, loved and supported her despite probable disgust and ridicule from those who knew him, quietly and patiently trusting God. Imagine what our lives would be like with that kind of trust. Imagine what the world would look like with that kind of love. God’s plans don’t always make sense, but they are always good and trustworthy - the first Christmas is our proof.Vicki Young
