Matthew 1:24-25, Joseph and Mary

24 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.

Comments

The marriage was formally completed but not consummated. The wording suggests that Joseph and Mary did not have sexual intercourse until after Jesus’ birth. God carefully prepared the newlyweds for Jesus’ birth, sending angels to each of them (Joseph in Matthew’s Gospel; Mary in Luke’s).

What comfort it must have been to them that their stories aligned.

Later, we learn that Joseph and Mary had further children in a natural way. There is no biblical warrant for the perpetual virginity of Mary.

Application/Reflection

“Obedience” is the word that describes both Mary and Joseph. God used them not because they were spectacular people of education, position, or wealth. He used them because of their humble obedience. Consider a place in your life where you can be more obedient to God. Is there a step of surrender and obedience God is asking of you?

Prayer

Eternal Father, you gave to your incarnate Son the holy name of Jesus to be the sign of our salvation: Plant in every heart, we pray, the love of him who is the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

(BCP, p. 213)