Joseph (not the one with the technicolor coat)

In an earlier blog I mentioned the Innkeeper and the thought that he has achieved the status of hero slightly undeservedly. I say slightly because although it is true that he perhaps could have done more at least he did something.


So the innkeeper enjoys some undeserved adulation; it could be argued that some of that adulation could be re-directed to another participant in the Nativity who, although having a central part, goes almost unnoticed. I am of course talking about Joseph.

The truth is, we do not know an awful lot about the man. Tradition tells us that he was older than Mary. There is little mention of him in the bible ad we do not read of him at all after the story of the boy Jesus in the temple.

It is widely believed and accepted that he died when Jesus was still relatively young. One branch of the Church follow the belief that Mary was the Mother of God and therefore it was important that she remained a virgin her whole life further distancing Joseph from both the Nativity and the life of Christ.

So why do I think he should be given more credit and adulation that he does? Think about it, Mary knew without doubt that what the angel told her was true. She knew she had not been with a man so if she was indeed pregnant there had to be some supernatural, heavenly, miraculous hand at work. Joseph on the other hand only knew that he was not the father. He had to show faith in God and trust in his betrothed, Mary. Even before he received a visit from the angel he showed great dignity and generosity in the way that he was planning to break his ‘engagement.

There is also something in the story to learn about playing a supporting role to those who are following God’s plan just because you are not the central character does not mean to say you do not have an important role to play. Think of Joseph the next time you feel pushed into the shadows. Where would the Nativity be without the faith showen by Joseph when he accepted the command from God to take Mary as his wife?