12/09/2024
Let’s Not Overlook Joseph of Nazareth
I asked my research assistant—a certain ChatGPT—what the most interesting facet of Joseph’s life might be. She shared a couple of things that didn’t make it into Sunday’s sermon but you might still find inspirational.
- Joe was a man of Quiet Faith:
Unlike Mary, Joseph does not speak a single recorded word in the Gospels. His actions—immediate and faithful responses to God’s commands—speak louder than words, highlighting the value of quiet, steadfast faith. - Joe’s Legacy of Influence shouldn’t be underestimated:
Joseph’s role as Jesus' earthly father likely influenced Jesus' human understanding of fatherhood, work, and faithfulness. Jesus' parables often reflect a deep respect for honest labor and familial love, which Joseph likely modeled.
Why This Matters:
Joseph's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting God even when circumstances seem incomprehensible. His willingness to set aside his own plans and reputation to follow God’s will makes him a model of humility, courage, and faith in action.
In a time when qualifications for important leadership positions seem to have a lot more to do with financial wealth or how good you look on TV, it’s so reassuring that we have Joseph of Nazareth to look up to. May we all aspire to the virtues that God holds out to us in the earthly father of Jesus. May our actions speak louder than words, may we never overlook the influence we have on those around us, and may each of us hold dear the value of quiet, steadfast faith.
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I thought about using the following for a benediction—since Jacob Marley was warning Scrooge about the danger of loving money and what it could buy. Ends up with the Cantata and everything else going on, I didn’t have the time. So here is what you might have heard if the sermon itself was 5 minutes shorter!
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Power Without Conscience?
I ran out of room for this vignette in Sunday’s sermon. Remember the quote that could be the headline for Ahab and Naboth: “All that’s needed for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing.” The following reinforces that truth.