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

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

How does Joseph respond to the message of an angel of the Lord who appears 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. 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.” (Matt 1:20b-21).

“And Joseph arose from his sleep, and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took her as his wife” (Matt 1:24).

Adonai,

Your lovingkindness surrounds those who walk humbly before You. You are attentive to the cries of Your people, and You do not ignore the needs of Your servants. Your glory goes before us. Your glory is our rear guard. Your glory hems us in. You keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You. Blessed are those who trust in You. You lead in paths of righteousness for Your Name's sake.

Joseph laid down with a burden of fear and concern for Mary. But You quieted his soul. Like a weaned child must be his soul within him as he arose in the morning dew of Your peace and assurance. Great is Your faithfulness to reveal the mystery of Your great power and eternal purposes to save the world that would perish apart from the divine intervention of Your Son. Glory to Your abounding grace given freely.

Glory and thanks to You for the announcement and fulfillment of the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world and Lord over all. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.