Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privately. (Matthew 1:18-19)

“God examines both rich and poor, not according to their lands and houses, but according to the riches of their hearts.” Augustine of Hippo

Mary probably stayed at Elizabeth’s home until John was born. Elizabeth only had three months left of her pregnancy when Mary visited her and we know Mary stayed that long. When Mary had left to see her cousin, no one would have been able to tell she was pregnant. But when she returned home, no longer could she hide the truth.

Joseph sees Mary for the first time since her visit from Gabriel. His first reaction is one of shock. When she told him that she was carrying the Messiah, we see from Scripture that he thought, “Yeah, right.” He would naturally assume that she’d been unfaithful to him while she was visiting Elizabeth. Joseph could have brought Mary to the elders and had her stoned for being unfaithful to him. Instead, he decided to put her away privately, or officially divorce her. He was a just man who didn’t want Mary to die for what he perceived as her sin of being unfaithful.

Although this was what Joseph had decided, he was still troubled and thinking about what he should do.

Is there a situation in your family where you need to confront something you believe is wrong? Consider following the example of Joseph and spend some time praying and thinking about your decision. Ask God to reveal to you your next action before you do something impulsively. Maybe like Joseph, you’ll find the truth to be different than your preconceived suppositions.

Is there someone you know who could use a specific kindness from you rather than the harsh judgment you feel it is your right to give?