“You shall name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." ~ Matthew 1:21
He’s an interesting character the Bible barely mentions. A craftsman
near the bottom of the social scale appears in nativity scenes, yet we overlook
his journey and the price he paid to fulfill his role as the chosen
safeguard of our Savior.
Joseph doesn’t get
much credit because he wasn’t Jesus’ biological father, but he was a good Dad
and an obedient Christian. Though he lived over 2,000 years ago, fathers from
all generations can learn much from him about fatherhood.
Joseph’s faith and spiritual maturity were tested
repeatedly. When unsure about his future with Mary, an angel came to him in a
dream revealing who the child was, what He should be named, and His role in
fulfilling God’s prophecy. When King Herod threatened his family, Joseph took
them to Egypt, an unfamiliar land, and obeyed again when God told him it was
safe to return.
All fathers are called
to have this same sense of responsibility and courage to protect those under
their care. When his family was in danger, Joseph willingly led them on the long,
arduous journey to Egypt. Another essential part of every father’s role is to
protect and defend.
He seemed content remaining
out of the spotlight. His presence may have been quieter, but he was always present.
Scripture’s last
glimpse of Joseph occurred when Jesus accompanied His parents on a pilgrimage
to Jerusalem. On this visit, their 12-year-old Son went missing among the
throngs of Jews who’d journeyed to the temple.
After searching for three
days, Jesus’ parents found Him listening, learning, and amazing all the
teachers at the temple. “Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?”
Jesus replied.
Instead of chastising
or threatening punishment, Joseph’s calm demeanor demonstrated that guidance in
raising children will sometimes come from unexpected sources, that they’ll
continue to surprise and delight us, and eventually, we’ll have to let them go,
as they follow God’s plan.
Too many families lack
the steady leadership and presence of a father. Too often, our culture suggests
that fathers aren’t necessary; that families can get along without them. But
the absence of a strong father figure can have a profound impact on a person’s
self-esteem.
When families don’t
have fathers, boys often look for the wrong kinds of role models. Without a
virtuous father, many girls don’t have a good example of how women should be
treated and may choose less-than-admirable dating partners.
Joseph’s example
proves that families not only need fathers, but they also need fathers who
trust in the Lord, no matter life’s challenges.
