As I pondered the scene at the nativity, I was struck by something that I had not previously considered. I focused on Joseph. I normally don’t really think about him and his role very much. I mean, it’s pretty common for us to mainly pay attention to Mary and baby Jesus. But this day, I realized a beautiful part of God’s plan.
Let’s first read this scripture:
God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it gave Him great pleasure. Ephesians 1:5
Through accepting Jesus as our Savior, we them become grafted in, or adopted, into the Kingdom of God. We become co-heirs with Christ.
Now if we are children, then we are heirs- heirs of God and co-heirs of Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory. Romans 8:17
God’s plan was to adopt us into His family.
But first, Jesus was adopted. He was adopted by Joseph. Have you ever considered this?
God is Jesus’ Father and Mary is His mother. He was born on earth and Mary’s husband acted as His earthly Father.
An adopted father.
How amazing is that?!
God even designed it, so Jesus would know exactly what the adoption He offered would feel like. He knows the intimate details of being loved and raised by one who was not a birth father. It offered Jesus a unique and full perspective of this process.
Many times, I have realized that I see my adoption into Christ’s family in a unique way since I too was adopted by my earthly father. What used to feel like something that made me less valuable, has become something that truly demonstrates my value to me. I was chosen. Not only did my Heavenly Father choose me, but also my earthly father. I know what it is to have access to my father’s life because I am adopted into a family. I know that my access equals that of his natural born children. There is no difference.
Having these experiences has really helped my walk with Jesus, and my intimacy with the Father.
Today, I encourage you to consider these things. Ponder them in your heart. Imagine Joseph, facing this great task of raising God’s son.
But it first started with his choice. He chose Jesus. Will you?
365 Days in the Presence 