Give the Gift of Grace

Nº 332

December 10, 2024

It is the most wonderful message the world has ever heard, or will hear.…the ‘Christmas spirit’…ought to mean the reproducing in human lives of the temper of Him who for our sakes became poor at the first Christmas. And the Christmas spirit itself ought to be the mark of every Christian all year round. - J.I. Packer

When Mary told Joseph that she was pregnant, we can only imagine his reaction. Anger?! Hurt?! Betrayal?! Frustration?! Bitterness?! Grief?! All of these and more?!

Joseph could have exacted vengeance. The law prescribed that Mary should be put to death (Leviticus 20:10). But his crushing personal disappointment did not override his noble, merciful, and loving heart.

Before an angel arrived to provide the grand picture of God’s involvement in their lives, Joseph made his decision. “And Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.” (Matthew 1:19)

Joseph found himself caught between the harsh penalty of the law and the seemingly cavalier response of grace. Joseph was both just and gracious. He resolved to find the best alternative for all concerned.

The baby that Mary was carrying, would one day protect an adulterous woman from an angry mob bent on enforcing the letter of the law. While protecting the woman, Jesus did not affirm her sinful behavior. His concluding words were, “go, and sin no more.” (John 8:11b)

This Christmas, like Joseph, choose grace. Showing love does not sanction misbehavior. But it does reflect Christ’s gracious heart, the way Joseph showed love to Mary.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President