Joseph was surprised. This righteous man was asked to marry someone who had clearly been unfaithful. Or so it seemed. What God was asking was that Joseph be less righteous to be more useful, at least the way righteous had been defined at the time. We like to be "less righteous" today, but I think we might be confusing "less righteous" with "less faithful." When God calls to act outside the box, it will be a challenge. It will make us stand out from the crowd, not blend in. We don't get to skip church to be less righteous and fit into our neighborhood. We are asked to stand for and with the poor, deserving or not. We are asked to sacrifice our own safety and preference for the well-being of others. We are asked to study God's Word and pray without ceasing. We are asked to judge not.
I think I would find it useful to have an angel appear and instruct. I don't expect that to happen, but somehow, even sans angel, it is the people of God that reflect God's glory. It is the reflection that draws nations in, that gathers people together. I love the promises of Isaiah that begin, "Arise, shine, for your light has come." I think that's what happens in Christmas Eve services all over the world. People are gathered, the light comes and shines, and for a brief moment, God's peace is reflected to the rest of the world.
Someday, the "glory of the Lord" will overcome all the darkness. Until then, may we follow Joseph's example and be willing to listen and obey.
It may begin tonight. It will begin tonight. What if it did begin tonight?
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