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What Jesus Did! 'Miraculous Scandal' — Matthew 1:18-19 Sunday, January 5, 2025 This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, to whom she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. — Matthew 1:18-19 NLT Key Thought Imagine that the plan of God depends on the faith of an engaged carpenter and young virgin who finds herself pregnant. There is a quiet and faithful dignity that undergirds this whole miraculous scandal. In the face of the inexplicable and the scandalous, Joseph and Mary show themselves faithful and kind. Their behavior is a great reminder to us of how we should conduct ourselves when things concerning our friends and faith seem untidy, unclear, or unfair. Today's Prayer Faithful and righteous Father, thank you for the example of Joseph's kindness even though he was hurt and bewildered. Thank you for Mary's faithfulness, even though her challenge was enormous and largely incomprehensible. Most of all, thank you for your faithfulness to your promises. In Jesus' mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen. Related Scripture Readings 2 Corinthians 4:5-7 Proverbs 3:3-4 2 Timothy 2:20-22