"Look! Jehovah's Slave Girl!"

Mary and Joseph

Mary likely did not wait for her pregnancy to reveal itself!  She no doubt had to speak to Joseph.  Beforehand, she may have wondered how this decent, God-fearing man would respond to what she had to tell him. Nonetheless, she approached him and told him all that had happened to her.  As you might imagine, Joseph was deeply troubled.  He wanted to believe this dear girl, but it seemed that she had been unfaithful to him.  The Biuble does not say what thoughts went through his mind or how he reasoned. But it does say that he decided to divorce her, for at that time, engaged couples were viewed as being married. However, he did not want to expose her to public shame and scandal, so he chose to divorce her in secret.  (Matthew 1:18, 19)  It must have pained Mary to see this kind man agonizing over his unprecended situation. Yet, Mary was not embittered.  Jehovah kindly helped Joseph to find  the best course.  In a dream, God's angel told him that Mary's pregnance was indeed miraculous. That must have been a relief!  Joseph  now did what Mary had done from the start-he acted in harmony with Jehovah's leading.  He took Mary as his wife, and he prepared to take on the unique responsibility  of caring for Jehovah's Son. - MATTHEW 1:20-24.

Married people-and those contemplating marriage-do well to learn from this young couple of 2,000 years ago.  As Joseph saw his young wife fulfill her duties and cares of motherhood, he was surely pleased that Jehovah's angel had directed him. Joseph must have seen the importance of leaning on Jehovah when making major decisions.  (Psalm 37:5; Proverbs 18:13)  He no doubt remained careful and kind in making decisions ass the family head.

Next time: "Look! Jehovah's Slave Girl!" - Conclusion of Mary and Joseph

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