Extended Grace

As far as Joseph knew before his encounter with the angel, Gabriel, Mary had been sexually unfaithful to Him.  He didn't feel he could continue with his commitment to marry her. However, he decided he would not seek revenge by ruining her reputation about her indiscretion.   Instead he decided to put her away quietly.

However, things aren't always as they appear to be.  We need to take into consideration that we might be missing some important information that gives a reasonable explanation before jumping to conclusions and thinking the worst about others.  Joseph needed an angel to bring clarity to the truth about Mary.

We might not have an angel bring clarity to something we don't understand, but it doesn't entitle us to judge that which we don't understand.  In time, all things hidden are revealed.  Even when guilty, people still need to see Jesus and a love that will not let them go despite their sins.

As the Christmas season is upon us, may we consider Joseph's attitude and actions toward Mary and extend the same grace toward those around us.  If someone is guilty of the accused sin, forgive them.  If unsure about their guilt, think the best of them and show them love and support.

Jesus is the reason for this season, and we need to be an extension of Him to the lost around us.  We can be if we offer grace instead of judgment and condemnation to those things we don't really understand.