Matthew 1:18-25
Reflect
Most likely, Joseph and Mary would’ve been in their teens at the time. Can you imagine their emotional state? Being betrothed was equal to being married and breaking it off would’ve been considered a divorce. Imagine the social embarrassment! Imagine taking on the mantle of dealing and parenting the promised Messiah at such a young age!
Have you ever been in a situation where there was so much going on in your life that you felt like you were losing control? Perhaps you faced several unfortunate circumstances one after the other, or maybe it was finals week and you had a full course-load of exams. What gave you peace?
In the midst of a relentlessly chaotic and unpredictable world, what will settle the believer’s heart? I believe that part of the answer is promise. Immanuel means God with us. When we can no longer be with our adult children, we can take comfort that God is with them. When we’re lonely, we can find solace that we are never truly alone. When we are unsure of our future career, God is with us each step of the way.
If God is able to keep and fulfil His promise of a coming child, the promise of being with us in all circumstances will also ring true.
Apply
How are you making space to encounter God’s promise and peace today?
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for the Director, Kristy Thomas.
- Pray for our Audio/Visual Director, Grant Mix.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.
- Pray for our Communications Specialist, Katrina Grey.