What Was He Thinking?

Have you ever tried to crawl inside someone else’s mind? Are you ever that curious about the thought process for a person and their life journey? There is a particular human of the Bible that has always intrigued me to that degree.

At this time of year, of course, our focus is on Jesus and his birth. Mary is also a central figure for being the woman chosen by God to experience a miraculous conception as the Mother of Jesus. There is another piece of this story to tell, the part that belongs to the one who has caused me to wonder, what was he thinking? Yes, I am referencing the man God selected to be the earthly Father of Jesus – Joseph. Joseph is not always in the forefront of this season. Yet, if not for his choices, where would we be?

Our scripture shows that Joseph had been considering things. Here is where I have pondered – what was he thinking? Was he filled with anticipation as a new father? Did he have any anxiety about being the father to the Son of God? Could he have questioned why he was chosen or how he could be the father he needed to be? Did it bring him to his knees as he contemplated what was really happening and what was to come? Oh, what was Joseph thinking?

After the visitation from the angel of the Lord, Joseph did as he said. He took the expectant Mary home to be his wife. Matthew 1:25 declares when the baby was born, “he gave him the name Jesus.” Joseph weighed the circumstances. Afterward, he committed the most courageous act – he followed the word of the angel who was sent to him from the Lord. Can we say we do the same?

I don’t know if you are filled with hope or apprehension at the time you are reading this. No matter what, I encourage you to do as Joseph did; consider your options, then choose to obey the instruction of the Lord. You will not be disappointed. Should generations to come inquire, “what was he thinking?” as you pursue Jesus’s leading – your example will be inspiringly remembered.

Father God, you know where I am today. I pause and consider the choices before me. Lord, above all, I ask you to instruct me in the way I should go. Please lead me, my family, and generations to come. Should anyone question - what is he or she thinking? - may they see that your hand guided me for the glory of Jesus. I pray this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Throughout the day: wherever you are on life’s journey, pause and consider your options. Seek the Lord in prayer. Ask him for his directions for you and diligently obey him.