Aside from “potty” and “monkey,” Asher’s favourite words are “Mummy” and “Daddy” these days. So when I had the opportunity to teach Asher about how Mary and Joseph are Jesus’ mummy and daddy, he acted like he understood. It was something he could relate to. It’s one of those things I’ve had to adapt in using Truth in the Tinsel this year in order to celebrate a meaningful, Christ-centred Advent with my family.
I’ve heard these passages during Advent for years. Reading these stories from the perspective of a parent is different. I never expected to learn about obedience from Mary and Joseph, but I’m struck by their obedience and faith in God. Mary had to trust God with the baby who was supernaturally conceived within her. Joseph had to trust God when He told him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife. And they both willingly obeyed.
In some ways Mary and Joseph’s obedience is remarkable when I think about how difficult it is for Asher to obey us or when I take a long time to obey God. Thankfully God is patient with us, and there’s encouragement in seeing how Mary and Joseph obeyed God in a time that would have been a challenge for them.
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38
When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. Matthew 1:24
Join us on our journey through Truth in the Tinsel this Advent season!
