It’s not Christmas yet, but I’ve already had a great Christmas.

We’ve decorated the house and have had time to enjoy it. We’ve spent time with friends and enjoyed singing carols and thinking about the coming of our Lord.

One of the activities that has blessed me is reading Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2. These chapters are what we normally think of as the Christmas message. Luke 1-2 tells us of much of the events of the birth of our Lord through the eyes of Mary. Matthew 1-2 lets us look into what happened through the experience of Joseph.

As I have read these chapters, I have thought a lot about Joseph, the forgotten man of Christmas. Joseph usually gets little thought or understanding at Christmas time.

I believe Joseph played a powerful role in the birth and nurture of the Son of God. There is something very special about Joseph.

Joseph’s life can teach us about what both mothers and fathers do that makes a difference. Here are three things Joseph did that God wants us to do.

First, Joseph made hard choices. When Joseph learned of Mary’s pregnancy, he had to struggle about his and Mary’s future. Notice the Scripture calls him a just man. He wanted to treat Mary with dignity and respect. He obviously had a good heart and a gentle nature. When it came time to make a decision, Joseph chose the hard decision that made all the difference.

Second, Joseph did difficult things. He took Mary in and treated her with tenderness. He provided for Mary and the baby. When danger arose, he took care of his family. He escaped from the influence of those who wanted to kill the child.

I once read that a Godly man will be gentle with his family and hard with the world that wants to destroy it. Joseph exhibited that kind of life.

Third, Joseph persevered and reassured. How tragic that some men cut and run. Joseph stayed and fought for his family.

We don’t know what happened to Joseph. By the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry, Joseph is no longer mentioned. I think we know this: God entrusted His Son to a good, just, and Godly man named Joseph. This man fulfilled God’s desire for a man.

I think we also know we will see Joseph in heaven.

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