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Matthew 1:18-25 (NIV)

“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.”

Have you ever stopped to think that Jesus was a part of a blended family? Yes, the greatest man to ever walk on this earth was in a blended family! Our Savior did not come from a traditional family! I am always amazed at how relatable Jesus is with us. He truly does understand every single thing that we face.

Joseph’s obedience played a major role in this story. Joseph could have easily walked away. He could have decided that it was too much for him to handle and most people would have understood his reasoning. But, he obeyed. Joseph took on this role as “stepfather” to our Savior.

I’m sure Joseph faced many of the same things that stepfathers face today. What stands out to me the most is that he was obedient. That is what God asks of every father. He needs total surrender to His plans. Will it be easy? Absolutely not! Just think about how Joseph felt when he found out Mary was expecting a baby! But when the angel appeared to him in a dream Joseph showed immediate obedience. He did not take time to think about it or talk himself out of it. He just obeyed.

What is God asking you to do in your blended family that may be hard? You know that thing that He’s put on your heart and you’re trying to ignore it or reason your way through it? Stop and look at Joseph’s example.

Each child in your life was placed there on purpose by our amazing God. Whether the child is a biological child or a bonus child he/she needs you. God orchestrated all of this as part of your ministry on this earth. Be willing, today, to obey.