nativity

While Shepherds Watch Their Flock by Night…

Picture, the Shepherds in the fields on a night like so many other nights keeping watch over their flocks and in an instant this night was set apart as glorious and terrifying all at the same time. We have this vision of brightness and an angel appearing, then, in Luke 2:10, the angel speaks.

The Shepherds.

Following the timeline of Joseph and Mary traveling to Bethlehem for the census and the baby Jesus being born in a manger, we read in Luke of shepherds in the area. They become part of the setting of Jesus’ birth.

Lu 2:8 And in the same region there were [some] shepherds staying out in the fields, and keeping watch over their flock by night.

These shepherds were camping in the countryside guarding and caring for their flock. What might be of note is according to tradition, the sheep were in the fields closer to the time of spring and summer which leaves open to questioning our December nativity scene. However, through culture and custom, we celebrate Jesus’ birth on December 25th. What is important is the event, perhaps more than pinning down the exact date. Back to our shepherds attending their flock by night.

The night hours, under the cover of darkness, would provide an opportunity for wild animals to prey upon the defenseless sheep hence, the shepherds would stay awake to keep an eye on them for protection and keep their flocks from straying. According to Albert Barnes New Testament Commentary, this can be more literally translated as “tending their flocks by turns through the night watches”.

What does the life of a shepherd look like? Certainly, they would need to be diligent workers in order to maintain the gathering of their flock into one area. Also, they would need to be dependable. Neglecting their turn at watch or becoming distracted could mean the loss of sheep.

Recall that when David was a shepherd keeping watch of his father’s flock, he had to fight off the attack of a lion and a bear (1 Samuel 17:34). In the book of Exodus, we are given the information that Moses was a shepherd also, attending his father-in-law’s flock.

Smith’s Bible Dictionary gives us some practical information of a shepherd’s life. Their equipment consisted of a covering probably made from sheep skin to keep warm and a sling for a weapon. Traditionally, there would be small huts or shelters set up or they may have had their own form of a type of tent. And, as depicted in many nativity scenes, a shepherds crook to manage the flock would be common. Water would be supplied either from a stream or from a trough attached to a well.

The routine of a shepherd, again taken from Smith’s Bible Dictionary, was to lead the flock from the fold in the morning by calling to them and settling them into a pasture, sometimes with the assistance of dogs. The shepherd would provide water then in the evening, bring them back and check to see of any were missing. At night, he would keep watchful over the herd to protect them. Being a shepherd also required a certain care of the young lambs and those lambs who were weak.

Although the concentration here is on the shepherds, you cannot miss the correlation between the care of the actual livestock to the care of Christ’s own referred to as His sheep. This truly is a beautiful picture of our own protection from God and His tender mercies towards His children.

Imagine, the dark sky in the hills of Bethlehem, the shepherds keeping a diligent watch over the flock at night. The hustle and bustle of the city quieted down,

Luke 2:9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.

This was not an everyday occurrence!! A quiet, peaceful dark sky, then instantly, the night was illuminated. One second, you blink your eyes and the next, you see standing before you an angel shining with the brilliance of God. There was no warning. We can only imagine the shepherds fear at this sight!

Recall the blinding light that appeared before Paul on the road to Damascus.

Ac 22:6,11 "And it came about that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a very bright light suddenly flashed from heaven all around me, 11 "But since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus.

Often, a great light is connected with God’s glory and His angels.

Ex 24:16-17 And the glory of the LORD rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days; and on the seventh day He called to Moses from the midst of the cloud. 17 And to the eyes of the sons of Israel the appearance of the glory of the LORD was like a consuming fire on the mountain top.

Ps 104:1-2 Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with splendor and majesty, 2 Covering Thyself with light as with a cloak, Stretching out heaven like a [tent] curtain.

Re 21:23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

Re 22:5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Re 18:1 After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illumined with his glory.

Lu 2:10 And the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people;

First, thankfully, the message is do not be afraid. It’s like someone telling you everything’s going to be okay in a disaster – you can appreciate the truth to their statement yet it takes a bit of time for your heart to stop racing and your brain to calm down! Trust trumps fear! Think of the proclamation to Zacharias when told that his wife Elisabeth would have a son in Luke 1:13. The words, ‘fear not’ preceded the impossible news. An angel also told Mary not to fear when she was visited with the news of her conception in Luke 1:30. Daniel was told to ‘fear not’ in his vision in Daniel Chapter 10. In Matthew, an angel appeared to the women seeking Jesus after he was crucified and buried, and told them to not fear (Mt 28:5). These accounts remind us of the incredible circumstances surrounding God’s messengers to His children. Angel’s appearing with divine messages were not every day, normal happenings, but miraculous events. Hence, although exciting, these events were also alarming.

The shepherds are given a reason why they need not fear. This messenger of God has brought good news! The words in the KJV are “good tidings of great joy”. This is the gospel as we understand it, and with it comes exceeding joy – the way of salvation for all men! I wonder if the shepherds had any idea the role God had chosen for them to play in the announcement of His plan of salvation for all mankind.

Lu 2:11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

I’m not certain we are able to imagine the joy this news brought to the shepherds.

Consider. What would our expectations be as humans for the announcement of a king? Perhaps, a herald of angels in a setting of pomp and circumstance filled with an innumerable amount of people eagerly awaiting to catch just a glimpse of royalty.

Notice the reference not only to ‘good news’ and ‘great joy’ but also to ‘all the people’. Jesus was born to this earth for everyone, Jews and Gentiles alike, there were no exclusions in this announcement.

“The good tidings thus brought by the angel were of importance most universal and unlimited, reaching through all successions of time, and all extensions of place, filling all ages and all regions of the world with matter and with obligation of joy. In these tidings we are all concerned, and it is our duty to listen to them with reverent attention, seriously to weigh the purport of them, and diligently to contemplate the reasons of that great joy which should be effectually produced in us by them, as their proper and due result”. Dr. I. Barrow’s commentary in the British Family Bible

Think of the excitement that must have begun in the hearts of the shepherds as they are listening to this proclamation from God! These shepherds are probably of Jewish background and have knowledge of a coming Messiah and have been awaiting the fulfillment of this promise. The scene that is unfolding before their very eyes is the way to forgiveness and peace with God and this is for everyone, the Jewish race and all humans!

A Savior. Christ the Lord. The One who delivers. The ruler of heaven and earth.

Mt 1:21 "And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins."

Joh 1:29 The next day he *saw Jesus coming to him, and *said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!

This is not just a news event that the shepherds are hearing. This is an event that directly involves them. It is what they have been expecting, the Messiah has been born. For them! Born as a gift to deliver them from sin and death.

Joh 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Personally, consider the difference between hearing of something that has happened in a far off land, and that same circumstance taking place in your own home or neighborhood or town. The shepherds in the fields have a direct stake in this event and it must have filled their hearts with an incredible disbelief of their fortune! As you think of the event taking place, realize you are personally involved in this plan of salvation for all mankind. Has your heart been changed by the Savior of the world? Do you recognize Him as Lord? Do you see your need for His deliverance?

Jesus – the Lord of all. Ac 10:36 "The word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace

Jesus – the Head and Ruler of the church. Eph 1:22 And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church,

Jesus – the King of kings and Lord of Lords. Re 19:16 And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS."

Jesus – the Prince of Peace. Isa 9:6 For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

2Ti 1:9 who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, 2Ti 1:10 but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,

Lu 2:12 "And this [will be] a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths, and lying in a manger."

The shepherds are told where to look for the infant. They were given specific direction. Although we often may not understand God’s ways, we do have instruction to follow. We may easily get caught up in asking ‘why’, as in ‘Why is the baby lying in a manger’. Perhaps we do not need to be as concerned with the details as we are with the main point – Jesus has been born!

Luke goes on to record that a literal army of angels appeared and were praising God! The scene continues to become more magnificent. They were saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” (Luke 2:14)

I am unable to comprehend the grandeur of this moment. The angels depart and the shepherds begin speaking to one another. We do not have to imagine their conversation as it is recorded for us!

Lu 2:15 And it came about when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds [began] saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."

It seems from the wording that this was not a decision that took long to make. The KJV says ‘Let us now go’. The word now or de in Strong’s Greek is a particle of emphasis or explicitness. There is a conveyance of urgency. The shepherds wanted to see for themselves what the angels had proclaimed. They had been given a special revelation from God about their Messiah’s birth and they were going to act on it!

God’s children are given revelation through His Spirit in His word of how to live pleasing to God. What do we do with the information we have? Is it filed away for another time? Do we take immediate action? When sin is revealed to us, do we respond with repentance? When a certain direction is revealed to us, are we willing to walk toward it? When the need change is revealed to us, do we accept it?

Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives this insight, “let us go across the country at the nearest, that we may lose no time, that we may speedily see this glorious reconciler of God and man. All delays are dangerous: but he who delays to seek Jesus, when the angels, the messengers of God, bring him glad tidings of salvation, risks his present safety and his eternal happiness. … Reader, be wise. Acquaint thyself now with God …”

When we read Luke 2:15, what we do not read is the shepherds questioning what they had been told or what they had seen. Although, the event itself was out of the ordinary and probably quite spectacular, the shepherds take the information and believe. They quickly make their way to Bethlehem.

Lu 2:16-18 And they came in haste and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. 17 And when they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.

First, we saw the shepherds’ quick response to God. Now we read they share the words the angels proclaimed about this Child with the parents. Then they tell others the testimony of what they had witnessed with those around them. The Messiah has come, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” (Luke 2:14)

How do you respond when you have good news? Are you excited to share with others?

God used the shepherds. They tarried at a simple task of caring for their livestock. They were nomads, roaming the countryside, guarding their flocks. Yet, they believed and became the first to proclaim the Gospel to others. God uses His children for His honor.

2Co 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves;

Ps 66:16 Come [and] hear, all who fear God, and I will tell of what He has done for my soul.

Ps 71:17-18 O God, Thou hast taught me from my youth; and I still declare Thy wondrous deeds. 18 And even when [I am] old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Thy strength to [this] generation, Thy power to all who are to come.

Wonder – this is the response of those who heard the good news. To be amazed, to have admiration. To marvel.

The shepherds in the fields were part of God’s plan and are forever etched in our mind in scenes depicting the birth of Christ. They heard, they believed, they responded, they witnessed. God has given us an example to follow.

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Joseph

We sing about the kings, we sing about the shepherds, we sing about Mary, and of course we sing praises to Jesus, our Lord and Savior. What about Joseph, Mary’s husband? He is an unsung hero in our nativity scene. What can we learn of him, who was he?

Mt 1:16 and to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Joseph had future plans of a wedding to Mary. He was a carpenter (Mt 13:55), so we can conclude he was a skilled worker. Picture him, going about his plans, working towards this future time of marriage, then the bomb drops!

Mt 1:18-19 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 19 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly.

We don’t know exactly how or when he found out about Mary’s unique pregnancy, but we do know he was rightfully a little taken back. He acted mercifully towards her which gives us a picture of a compassionate heart and tender feelings for Mary. He wasn’t going to hand her over to Jewish law and its consequences. He chose not to throw her ‘under the bus’. So he decides to quietly, (rather than publicly), end his betrothal to her and avoid her shame. Think for a moment, Joseph and Mary’s betrothal was not a secret, it was publicly known that they had plans for the future to be together. Suddenly this would change and no matter how discreet Joseph chose to be, the word would get out. Certainly, people would talk and his name, along with Mary’s, would be up for questioning and raised eyebrows.

Matthew 1:19 says Joseph was a righteous or just man. Yet we also see he is thoughtful, ‘not wanting to disgrace’ Mary.

Consider. We live in a world where accusations are quick and biting, often without merit. People’s reputations can be ruined. It seems, in general, our society has forgotten the choice to remain silent and show mercy towards those found in difficult and even guilty circumstances. Perhaps we can be reminded of the necessity to act in a manner that is righteous but also tempered with a large dose of gentleness, humility and mercy towards others.

Fact – God continually shows mercy to us in His faithfulness to forgive.

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

According to Albert Barnes’ New Testament Commentary, the punishment for adultery, in the Middle East carried extreme public shame. “Adultery has always been considered a crime of a very heinous nature. In Egypt it was punished by cutting off the nose of the adulteress; in Persia the nose and ears were cut off; in Judea the punishment was death by stoning”.

Joseph had every right to bring a public accusation against Mary, yet he chose to ‘put her away secretly’ preserving her shame and character.

Ps 112:4-5 Light arises in the darkness for the upright; [He is] gracious and compassionate and righteous. 5 It is well with the man who is gracious and lends; He will maintain his cause in judgment.

Consider. We often hear the words, ‘It isn’t fair’. Perhaps you have personally thought the words, ‘This is not right’. The temptation is to defend yourself against something that looks bad for you. Our example in Joseph is to put another’s protection above our own ‘rights’ and even our own innocence.

Think back upon how God ordains each of His children’s steps. Before all time, God chose Joseph to be a player in the miraculous birth of Jesus. God knew that Joseph would react towards Mary’s circumstances with a heart of care and protection, even in his own distress from what seemed to be his future wife’s betrayal. So while he could have her persecuted, he chose to preserve her.

Read this interesting comment about Joseph’s character written in the British Family Bible: “he purposed to put his spouse away privily, that he might preserve her reputation. In so doing he was a pattern of charity, and reads to us a rule for our deportment towards erring and lapsed persons, that we should treat them with meekness, and pity, and fear; not hastening their shame, nor provoking their spirit, nor making their reformation desperate by harsh treatment. Bp. J. Taylor.

We do know that God comes to the rescue of Mary’s reputation and encourages Joseph to remain and follow through with his plans for their future. However, a personal application is apparent first.

Consider. Before an ‘angel of the Lord’ appeared to Joseph in a dream and enlightened him on the true facts of Mary’s condition, Joseph acted with a heart of kindness and mercy towards her. Before Joseph was convinced of the truth of the matter, he chose to quietly put her away rather than openly shame her. Before God’s plan was revealed, Joseph chose Mary’s protection over his own rights.

“Mary was espoused to him, and he was saddened and perplexed when he learned that she would become a mother before they had been actually married. Many would have thrust her away in indignation, and put her to an open shame; but Joseph was of royal mind as well as royal race. He would not expose what he thought to be the sin of his espoused wife: although he felt that she must be put away, he would do it quietly. When we have to do a severe thing, let us choose the tenderest manner. May be, we shall not have to do it at all.” Spurgeon’s Commentary on Matthew

We all have choices to act in a manner of mercy towards one another. We all have choices to protect another’s name and well-being. Often, we weigh ourselves and our benefit first. How tender are our actions and thoughts towards the mistakes and circumstances of others?

Clemency is not a word often used today. It conveys the meaning of being lenient and showing compassion towards others who are guilty when you are in a position of bringing down a judgement or sentence.

God’s intervention and lovingkindness is shown towards Mary and Joseph in their precarious relationship. As Joseph was pondering what to do with this situation of Mary’s pregnancy, divine intervention eased his thoughts.

Mt 1:20-21 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 "And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins."

Seriously?! So here we have a carpenter from Nazareth, engaged to be married to a young women whom he finds is expecting a child before they have had a physical relationship. Joseph decides to act in a discreet manner towards this news to avoid Mary’s shame. He will call off the engagement and pray any ‘talk’ will settle down quickly. Problem solved, or so you would think!

Joseph has a dream which enlightens the true events and he is pulled into the scene which is to unfold. An angel tells him to move ahead with his plans to betroth Mary. He is given this fantastical – meaning ludicrously odd – news that the child Mary is carrying has been conceived of the Holy Spirit. I’m not sure how you would wrap your head around this information.

Consider. Joseph must have had a faith that transcends our understanding. How would you respond to impossible, and humanly speaking, the improbable news of this dream? Joseph’s thoughts must be akin to when Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel to tell her of God’s plan for her to carry His child – although she knew no man (Luke 1:34-35).

What is Joseph’s response? He did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.

Mt 1:24 And Joseph arose from his sleep, and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took [her] as his wife

A carpenter from Nazareth in the hills of Galilee had plans to marry a young woman from the same city. His plans take a turn that was definitely unexpected and incredibly difficult in human understanding. Yet, Joseph’s faith proves true as he moves forward into unknown territory with a heart of obedience towards God. Think of Joseph’s humble character as he accepts Mary as his wife, and prepares to step-father a child not his own, all the while, trying to wrap his head around a story that would be difficult for anyone to grasp. He will go ahead with his betrothal to Mary and take a significant role in the Savior’s birth and early childhood.

I have to pause a moment here as these words shout in my own head – How big is your God? How amazing and incredible is your God? How perfect is your God who knows and plans each moment in each minute of all mankind – all to His glorious name?

This story has more twists and turns than any modern day screen writer could imagine. Yet, it is ultimately true and divinely inspired as the plan of salvation for the entire world.

In several instances, we read of Joseph’s obedience to Jewish Law (Lu 2:1-4; 21-39, 41; Mt 2:13-15; Mt 2:19-23; Lu 2:42-51). The greater commendation is his obedience to God and acceptance of God’s plan for him.

Joseph was of the lineage of David. He lived in the city of Nazareth in Galilee (Luke 1:26-27). Although he was not the physical father of Jesus, he acted as a father to Him (Luke 4:22). He is last mentioned in the journey to Jerusalem when Jesus was twelve years old. According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, ‘it is commonly supposed that he [Joseph] died before the commencement of the public ministry of Christ.

Joseph, Mary’s husband. We are shown only a glimpse, a small window of his life. Yet, the inspiration is great. He is a person, drawn towards God and used by Him. A carpenter from a town in the hills of Galilee with a heart of compassion and integrity and thoughtfulness. Joseph is willing and obedient to the plans of God and humble in his acceptance of God’s direction. There is no way he would be able to comprehend such an incredible plot yet he finds himself in the midst of the true story of God’s redemption for the entire world.

The figure of Joseph is commonly placed next to Mary in a Christian nativity scene, simply because we know he belongs there, he is a factor in the account of Jesus’ birth. Yet, as we take a closer look at his life, we can see clearly how God used our ‘unsung’ hero. Think upon the example we have in Joseph – a heart full of compassion, humility, faith, and obedience – a man used by God for God in His plan for humanity.

Mt 1:25 and [Joseph] kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus.

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Eyes of Wonder

As we approach the season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, I pray our faith and obedience to God’s will is lived out in a manner that directs honor to Him. His plans are for our good and His glory.

Every Christmas season, scenes of Jesus’ birth is depicted all around – in store front windows, in picture books on store shelves, and on ornaments for the tree. The nativity is printed on napkins, fabric and canvas suitable for framing. Little eyes look with wonder at the familiar scene and sing songs of a ‘Silent Night’ so long ago. What do we know of the characters represented?

What do we know of Mary?

Her husband was Joseph, whose father was Jacob. She gave birth to Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. His birth has been celebrated world-wide for over two thousand years!

Matthew 1:16 And to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Mary lived in the city of Nazareth which was set among the hills of Galilee. It seems that the people who lived in Nazareth were scorned upon (ref. John1:46), so it may not have been a popular place to live. But, something quite extraordinary happened to an unsuspecting teen according to the Bible.

Luke 1:26-30 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee, called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And coming in, he said to her, "Hail, favored one! The Lord [is] with you." 29 But she was greatly troubled at [this] statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

Note, the salutation given to Mary by the angel Gabriel. She is favored by God! This comes from the Greek word charitoo meaning to give grace or special honor. Mary is accepted by God as His own. According to the account above, she was actually disturbed by this greeting and wondered what was meant.

Think for a moment how strange this encounter might have been! It was not an everyday occurrence to have an angel of the Lord visit you. She did not expect God to give her a special honor which leads us to believe she was humble. In this unusual meeting, it was most likely difficult for her to even know what to think or say. How would you respond?

Picture this young girl, living in the town of Nazareth set in hills made of limestone, trying to wrap her head around this greeting. You can almost see her shaking her head in disbelief, wondering if she was dreaming or hallucinating. Then, the real news is delivered.

Luke 1:31 "And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.

Mary was a virgin when she conceived Jesus. This fact, in itself, makes no sense in our human knowledge and understanding. Yet, it is true. It is highly doubtful that Mary was able to comprehend how she could conceive and carry a child without having an intimate relationship with a man. Read her response:

Luke 1:34 And Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"

Hmmmm, you must have the wrong person, right!? She was not even married yet! The entire context of this scenario seems to be out of place, at least in human terms.

Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God.

Consider the news Mary had received, how her life was turned upside down. One day she was anticipating her marriage to Joseph, the next she was wondering how she would convince him of what had happened and hope he would somehow accept this unbelievable change in their plans.

Mary was probably not oblivious to the laws and the consequence of what others might think. Yet, her response to what she understands as impossible, unbelievable, and in all likelihood puts her in a position of wrong accusation and death, certainly proves she is God’s favored, full of His grace.

Luke 1:38 And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.

There are two thoughts from her response that cannot escape our notice. Faith and obedience. She believed what the angel said would happen, and she refers to herself as the Lord’s bondslave, in complete acceptance of His use of her life. What we do not read is an account of Mary thinking that perhaps God could find someone else to use, that this might prove to be quite difficult and it was going to upset the plans she had for her future. Instead, her faith in God’s will for her life shines forth. Her obedience to God’s plan is steadfast. It is remarkable, worthy of our notice.

Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.

The word used in the KJV for betrothed, is espoused. According to Jewish custom, a man and woman could be espoused or promised in agreement to one another ten to twelve months before they were married. This time was much like what we consider being engaged today. However, there is a difference. In the Jewish religion the betrothal agreement was legal and binding on both sides, at the time of engagement. Our cultural practice today sees an engagement as non-binding and without any legalities involved. No matter if a marriage ceremony takes place or not, or if unfaithfulness is practiced, there is little consequence. In Mary’s case, unfaithfulness during the time of betrothal was considered adultery and punished exactly the same way.

Leviticus 20:10 'If [there is] a man who commits adultery with another man's wife, one who commits adultery with his friend's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.

John 8:3-5a And the scribes and the Pharisees *brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the midst, 4 they *said to Him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. 5a "Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; …"

Was Mary afraid of what might happen? We do not read she was, but she was human and must have had feelings and fears and thoughts. It would be fair to think she felt a bit uncertain and uneasy how this plan was going to come to fruition. We do know Mary at least suffered the misunderstanding of those who loved her.

Read the commentary below on Matthew 1:18.

“She was found with child. Her situation was the most distressing and humiliating that can be conceived. Nothing but the fullest consciousness of her own integrity, and the strongest confidence in God, could have supported her in such trying circumstances, where her reputation, her honour, and her life were at stake. What conversation passed between her and Joseph, on this discovery, we are not informed; but the issue proves that it was not satisfactory to him: nor could he resolve to consider her as his wife, till God had sent his angel to bear the most unequivocal testimony to the virgin's innocence. His whole conduct, on this occasion, was exceedingly benevolent and humane. He might at once have taken the advantage of the law, and had her stoned to death.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Matthew 1:19-20 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly. 20 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

Think again of the consequence of what Mary’s condition looked like to those around her, this time recorded for us in Deuteronomy.

Deuteronomy 22:23-24a "If there is a girl who is a virgin engaged to a man, and [another] man finds her in the city and lies with her, 24a then you shall bring them both out to the gate of that city and you shall stone them to death ...”

Consider. Mary’s age. She was probably much younger than what we might think. According to several different studies, the average age for women to get married nowadays is about twenty-five years old. Four generations ago, it was not so unusual to be married in your very early twenties. Today, that would be considered fairly young! Rewind to the time and culture of our subject. It was common then for young women to be espoused or betrothed in their early teens, when it was physically possible to conceive children. This was culturally not only accepted but expected. Taking this into thought, it is fair to assume that Mary may have been little more than a teenager.

Imagine for a moment the teenage girls you know and try to comprehend the full weight of responsibility placed on Mary at this young age. It is difficult to believe and absolutely inspiring to read her response to the news she was given and all it may have conjured up in her mind.

As we approach the season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, I pray our faith and obedience to God’s will is lived out in a manner that directs honor to Him. His plans are for our good and His glory. God will use each of us right where we are placed. We may not always understand His plan (I often do not understand), sometimes God may require that we are uncomfortable, and He may ask some to suffer. God may change the plans we thought we would follow. In times of unexpected turns we have been given an example to follow through the exemplary life of a teenage girl. We are not to worship Mary, God alone is worthy of praise. But, we can esteem her life as one used by God and look at His amazing ways with hearts of love and eyes of wonder.