Post-Father's Day Thoughts
“Remember your leaders,” says Heb. 13:7, “those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” Joseph of Nazareth may not be one we would typically consider a leader, but I think after considering the outcome of his way of life, you will be moved to imitate his faith. When life is breathed into this often downplayed man, it becomes apparent that he is part of the great cloud of witnesses that surrounds us. And since we are surrounded by people such as Joseph, we can be encouraged to “also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb. 12:1-2).
What a man and model Joseph of Nazareth is for us.
“And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egpyt” (Mt. 2:14). Fathers, one of the best ways to protect those entrusted to us is to obey God right away, without delay and without arguing. Boys and singles, make it your habit to imitate Joseph in obedience: the life of your future family may one day depend on your obedience. Right away, no delay, and no arguing. Are we living our lives and leading our families in such a way that God will bless and not chastise us? If we don’t follow God’s ways, think of the danger we bring to our families. The consequences for our disobedience will be experienced by our family. In Joseph’s case, lack of immediate obedience would have resulted in the death of Jesus and immense pain for Mary.