In the Christmas story the role that Joseph plays speaks to my heart. He finds out that Mary is pregnant and he is stunned and heartbroken. He has every right to end their engagement, which in Joseph’s time, was equal to getting divorced.

In the midst of trying to make sense of what Mary has told him, Joseph has an angel visitor. Joseph now faces a decision: to be of this world and turn his back on Mary, or to totally trust in God. Joseph chooses trust and faith.

I imagine him thinking, “Why would the Almighty use such common folks as a carpenter and young girl to raise His precious Son?” As he tells Mary about his dream, I picture the joy on Mary’s face, to see that her beloved Joseph believes her and believes the baby she carries is the Holy One. Joseph did not know what would happen, but he knew that if God brought them to it, He would bring them through it.

Then how humbling that God chose ordinary people, shepherds, to come and adore the baby. As the shepherds left, I can see them happy and excited to tell everyone about this wonderful birth.

God uses ordinary people like Joseph and Mary to raise a boy who would one day save the world. God uses ordinary people like the shepherds to be evangelists and spread the word that Messiah had been born.

God uses us to carry His message into the world. No matter how small or unimportant you think you are, we are all part of His message of salvation. We are all called to be the light in the darkness.

As it did for Joseph, it will take a leap of faith for us to do what God asks of us. I know that it is scary, and for myself, I could think of reasons not to do what He has asked of me. But when I finally stopped saying “no” and jumped in with trust and faith, God never let go.

Joseph said “yes” to God so long ago and God used him in a powerful way. Joseph may have been reluctant at first, but finally, he trusted completely and was blessed far beyond what he could imagine. He may not have understood God’s plans, but I feel he never regretted answering God’s call.

This Christmas, my hope is that you remember just how special you are to God. He came to earth as a little baby, Joseph’s precious baby boy, because of His great love for you. God chose you to be His child. He loves you, and will use you and me, ordinary folks, called into extraordinary action!

– Nanci Branson
Accounting Clerk