One of the greatest examples of the Men of Old is Joseph (like, Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus). He is incredibly underrated, but he exemplified what it means to be a real man.
Usually the story of the birth of Jesus focuses on the role of Mary. Of course, her praise is well-deserved, but Joseph played a very large role in the birth of Jesus, as well. Here is a quick question to think about as we jump into this story of Joseph: “Was the reason that God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus because God knew what a great man Joseph was?”
God entrusted the care of His Son and Mary to one man – Joseph. And did Joseph complain when things didn’t go his way? Did Joseph whine to God because he had to take Mary all the way to Bethlehem? Did Joseph get mad when Mary told him that she was pregnant? Did Joseph give up when the going got tough and there was no room in any of the inns? Did Joseph feel sorry for himself when his wife had to give birth in a stable? No way. Joseph was a Man of Old.
When Mary first came to him, he treated her with respect and kindness. When the angel of God spoke to him, he responded with faith and determination. When he found out they had to leave their homes and travel to a distant town right before Mary had the baby, he set his jaw and did what had to be done. When there was no room in the inn, he found a way to provide for his family. When Mary had the child in a stable, he never left her side. When the shepherds and the wise men offered praise and gifts, he held his head up high and thanked God for His blessings. Throughout the entire Christmas journey Joseph showed that real men are kind, determined, humble, and strong in the midst of difficult situations and historic events.
Really, is there a better example of how to be a man than what Joseph shows us in the Christmas journey? His deeds go unsung. His story is untold. His role is virtually unnoticed. And that is perfectly fine with him. Real men like Joseph do not do what they do for glory or praises. Joseph sacrificed and gave of himself to protect and provide for Mary and the baby because he loved them… and it was the right thing to do. That is what Men of Old do.
Joseph is a perfect example of what it means to be a real man in the face of difficult situations and in the midst of great deeds.
All young men today should strive to be like Joseph.
I want to be like Joseph.
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1 comment:
Kenton Arthur, I have just read your "Perfect Middle Road" and the story of Skitz, and also Joseph, Man of Old. You express perfectly your generation's desire to go deeper than our generation has gone and to be Jesus' hands in serving His world today. He will lead you in just the perfect way He has planned for your wonderful life. Love you lots, Your Mom
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