Read Matthew 1:18-24 & Luke 2:1-7

I believe that history has romanticized Joseph and Mary somewhat. Nearly every portrait you see of this couple portrays them with a shining hue about their faces and a halo over their heads. I know that they were a special couple in history, but let’s keep in mind they were ordinary people. Joseph and Mary were common people who no doubt were looking forward to a common wedding. Joseph was a carpenter (Matthew 13:55), a skilled trade but a common one. We can assume that Mary came from a family that was as common as Joseph’s. Although Joseph and Mary were ordinary their faith was extraordinary.

Mary, after finding out that she was pregnant with the Messiah, proclaimed, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38). Quietly, modestly and submissively she saw her role as a faithful servant of the Lord. She could have boasted or rebelled, but she did neither. She exhibited a simple but profound faith in the Lord and His word.

Joseph exhibited profound faith as well. He had every right to disbelieve the story of Mary. However, when the angel disturbed his sleep, Joseph did not hesitate to take Mary as his wife. He powerfully displayed faith in the Lord and His word.

Allow me to give you another implied example of the faith of this couple. When Joseph and Mary made their way to Bethlehem the Bible indicates that they intended to stay at the inn but there was no room (Luke 2:7). Why would Joseph and Mary want to stay at an inn, notorious in those days for a rough clientele? Why didn’t they stay with relatives? Bethlehem was Joseph’s hometown. Surely he had some kin still residing in that little town. Perhaps the answer to those questions is that his family shunned them due to the scandal. Perhaps Joseph’s family did not believe the story of the unplanned pregnancy and disowned the couple for disgracing the family. If so, that makes the faith of this couple even more remarkable. They trusted the word of the Lord in the face of ridicule and gossip.

God deposited His only Son to the earthly care of ordinary people who had an extraordinary faith in Him. He still does today. Christmas spirit can be characterized by a life that completely trusts the Lord. Joseph and Mary exhibited that type of faith and their lives encourage us to do the same.

What do the following verses teach you about living a life of faith?

• Hebrews 11:1-6
• Colossians 1:21-23
• Philemon 4-7
• James 2:14-17
• 1 John 5:1-5