DecemberNewsletter

                                  I believe Joseph is one of the most underrated characters in the Biblical account of the birth of Jesus. He very clearly cares for Mary and is understandably conflicted when he hears about her pregnancy. He is prepared to be merciful in divorcing her and acts with incredible obedience when an angel validates Mary’s faithfulness to him and reveals how God is working. Joseph also provides for and protects his family through the visit of the Magi and the escape to Egypt to avoid Herod. Apart from Luke’s recording of Jesus in the temple at the age of 12, we never hear about Joseph again. For being one of the main characters in this account, the Gospel writers sure seem to refer to him as though he were a supporting role. And from what I can tell, Joseph seems like the kind of guy who would be okay with staying out of the spotlight.

In 1 Peter 5, Peter advises the audience to remain humble before God and in due time, He will elevate them. Humility is a challenging attitude to have, especially since it’s nice to be recognized for the effort we put into any given particular task or project. Did you study long and hard for that test? You should be proud when you pass it with flying colors. It’s not hard to see someone like Steph Curry take pride in his skills on the basketball court – the man can sink 3-pointers all day long. He knows his skill, but he’s not full of himself (at least as far as I can tell).

It's not difficult to find someone who’s arrogant and prideful, but it sure can be a challenge to be around them for any length of time. I’ve known people who have experience, skill, and passion, but their self-centeredness is hard to overlook. The belief that somehow the world owes you something is toxic and repulsive. The absence of humility keeps them from satisfaction and a general attitude of thankfulness and serenity. For example: it’s a privilege and honor to have someone respectfully ask for and value your advice and input. It’s abrasive to have someone provide input when it isn’t asked for, warranted, or appreciated. Quoting Dr. Walt Mueller: “Seek the spotlight and it will blind you.”

We would do well to note the difference between being humble and being humbled. Humility happens through discipline and contentment – it is an active and intentional attitude to restrain what would otherwise be a larger-than-life ego. Being humbled, however, is active and intentional, but an individual has no say or control in the matter. Peter’s point is to remain faithful with what God has given you and to allow Him to expand how far your influence reaches. In the case of Joseph, he serves God and his family faithfully. God’s plans don’t depend on Joseph’s involvement, but Joseph’s humility allows us to see the real “star of the show” in a more potent, powerful, meaningful way. Imitate Joseph so that Jesus may be seen in you all the clearer.

                                                                                                         Pastor Dan Hurner