| Matthew 2: 19-23 |
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The Return to Nazareth
19 But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead.” 21 And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. 23 And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene. |
Joseph
For a key character in the Christmas story, Joseph sure didn't say a lot. Scripture records none of his words. Joseph, like many men, left dealing with people to their spouse.
Although Joseph was a man of few words, he was quite capable of making decisions and taking action when necessary.
He took Mary and baby Jesus down to Egypt as instructed by God (an Angel can be quite compelling). There he patiently waited for the next sign, whatever it might be, for what to do next.
And the message came - in a dream.
Following your dreams is not the usual path for a practical hands-on carpenter. But these were not usual times. Obedience grows out of experience - and knowledge of God. Joseph knew the message was authentic.
"Go" - so they went. Joseph was learning another lesson in obedience.
But he kept his eyes and ears open.
When he heard that the new ruler was Archelaus, he knew that wasn't good. Judea could be dangerous. He was afraid and decided not to go there.
Another dream. Joseph heeded the warning, took the hint and moved to the north.
His choice was Galilee, in the north away from the politics of the capital Jerusalem.
And he and his family settled in Nazareth - a quiet out of the way place but large enough to need another carpenter. His choice - but thereby unintentionally fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be called a Nazarene.
Joseph is an important person in the Christmas narrative, not because he said anything, but because he did the right thing when told.
May we too be receptive to God's prompting.
Peter