Joseph's love through faith

So because I relate to Mary in a way, I had to also think about Joseph. It couldn't have been easy to be Joseph either. Even though the marriage had been arranged, I believe Joseph loved Mary more than we are ever told in the Bible. When he heard of her pregnancy, he could have publicly denounced her, divorced her and had her stoned. He could have been angry and assumed the worst. It would have even been socially acceptable, understandable and maybe even encouraged. I would imagine Joseph wrestled with thoughts of looking like a fool or being less of a man if he forgave his Mary and accepted her in the condition she was in.

But Joseph was secure in his manhood. Joseph listened when God's angels told him it would be okay. Joseph also said yes to God. Yes - I will do what you have asked - even if I am ridiculed for it or look like a fool. Yes not just because I am obedient to you God but also because I love Mary and I love you. He recognized God's gifts.... not just an opportunity to be the male role model of the son of God but also the gift of a wife who so willingly gave of herself to God. He had no proof that Mary had been faithful or that this was even really as the angels said. He had faith in God's plan and knew of God's provision.

When the news of this was spoken to Joseph, he and Mary were not living together. I am not sure why they were apart at the time and I don't fully understand the customs back then. All I know is that they were apart. Obviously there were no phones or even mail system in which to communicate so I would think the absence from her could have created even greater motivation in which to "quietly dismiss" her (as he had decided before he let his faith kick in). But something in Joseph did lead him to faith, something still ached within him and drove him to the decision to stay the course and be reunited with his beloved. Joseph loved Mary - the feelings were there, they were strong, and they were permanent. God knew this for he created it. Even if Joseph wrestled with looking like a fool, a pushover or even less of a man - his love for Mary outweighed that and he was able to see that Mary was worth it - even without the proof of her purity. He saw the best in her and chose to trust in that.

Hebrews 11:1 - Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.