When we think of Christmas, we usually have a mental image of a "Hallmark " setting. Everything looks peaceful but I am not so sure how peaceful it really was. Consider the messages the angels delivered. Repeatedly they had to reassure the engaged couple that there was nothing to be afraid about their presence.
To Mary: "The angel told her, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. You have found favor with God." Luke 1:30 The angel knew Mary was going to have to face her family and friends. The Bible has no record if she tried to explain her pregnancy.
As I read the Christmas story, I discovered something that I had never noticed. In the early part of Jesus' life, Joseph (Jesus' earthly father) gets the most face-time with the heavenly messengers. They first appear to him in a dream reassuring him not to divorce Mary but to go ahead and marry her. Matthew 1:20-25
We know little about Joseph. His life is to be bound up in the life of the virgin and her son. He did as the angel commanded him. Through discomfort, trial, anxiety and shame (No peace) he will raise the Prince of Peace. Amazingly, Joseph does not ask for an explanation, He just trusts and obeys. Another message for Joseph. Matthew 2:13-14
Later Joseph receives yet another angelic message [I wonder if he is getting accustomed to these messages], telling him to return home. Matthew 2:19-20 God does not ask Joseph to explain his marriage and family to the world - He asks Joseph to trust and obey.
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