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The Promise (optional reading):
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream
and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife,
because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:20)
Joseph: "Jehovah increases." My name—it means, "Jehovah increases." It's never
been more true. He has added blessing upon blessing. I've chosen to walk this path
of obedience though it may mean my own disgrace. Stil
l I didn't think my betrothal
to Mary would bring disgrace.
Nazareth is a small village. It didn't take long for word to spread. I understood the
looks—the judgment, the disappointment. But I would not—could not abandon
Mary to them. Even in those first moments when I became aware something was
amiss, I knew it couldn't be Mary. Whatever else happened, she didn't deserve that
punishment. Maybe I couldn't ignore the hurt, but
I would not put her through the
public humiliation. (opt. music begins) This - this was the only thing I did know.
That was before the dream. Before the angel spoke His name, Jesus! Before my
world turned upside-down and now I see the task, the blessing. Mary needs me.
This Baby needs me. I will be His shelter. I give my word.
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