Joseph knew WHO he was because he knew WHOSE he was. What we know about Joseph, namely his marriage to Mary and his raising Jesus, are both given to him by God. However, God’s first words to Joseph through the angel remind him of his identity. “Joseph, SON of David, do not fear…” (Matthew 1:20) […]
In marriage, a man’s wife changes him. He practices giving himself in love to her. He allows himself to be determined by her. He must attune himself to her, and she engages his heart and helps to develop his EROS into AGAPE love. Most men must learn this. There is greatness inside of every man, […]
Paralambanō. It’s the Greek word translated as “took” in the Gospels and it means “to enter into CLOSE relationship.” As in, “When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he TOOK his wife” (Matthew 1:24). The less emphatic version of this word is used by another man of […]
There is a difference between trusting WHAT a person tells us and trusting the PERSON who does the telling. Joseph trusted God, and that was enough for him to follow His plans. When Joseph awoke from his dream, he did not hesitate to do as the angel commanded (Matthew 1:24). Just as Mary did not […]
What is FREEDOM? True Freedom is living in God’s presence without fear of “what if God finds out?” Joseph wasn’t afraid to let God know he felt unworthy to be Mary’s husband. He felt unworthy because he was. But God, in a sense, said, “Do not be afraid – I am worthy, and I will […]