April 14, 2017: SOAP #2689: 1Samuel 15-16; 1Chronicles 5; Matthew 1

Scripture:  Matthew (NIV) 1:18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.  … 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.  25 But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

Observation:   Jesus is the main character in this historical narrative.  Surrounding Him we find several key supporting characters, i.e. Mary, the disciples, the Apostle Paul, etc.  I see them as first circle supporting characters. Then I see a third circle of supporting characters.  Some of them were key in supporting those in the first circle.

Joseph was one of these.  He accepted Mary.  He accepted the angel’s message about Mary.  He respected Mary. He withheld himself from her until her mission was complete.  He was willing to suffer any shame along with Mary.  He was willing to take responsibility for a child that was not his.

Application:  FIRST:  We all need supporting characters to assist us in fulfilling our life assignments.  For these people, we should be thankful.  We should find ways to express our appreciation. SECOND:  we can all be a supporting character to someone else.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, show me who, and show me how I can support others as so many have supported me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!