Hey there, tiny theologian. I'm so glad you're here for day 22 of our Jesse Tried journey.

Today, we're getting closer and closer to Christmas.

And our story brings us to a man named Joseph, a man who followed God, even when the path

ahead felt confusing.

If you haven't already, go ahead and grab your Day 22 card and your Joseph ornament. That Joseph ornament reminds us of

Jesus' earthly father. Did you know he worked with his hands building things, crafting carefully

as a carpenter? And when God gave him a big responsibility, Joseph trusted him and obeyed.

Today's scripture is from Matthew chapter 1, starting in verse 18.

Let's listen to part of the story.

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about. His mother Mary was pledged to be

married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant

through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had

in mind to divorce her quietly. Joseph could have walked away, but then something incredible happened.

Here's what the Bible says next.

But after he had considered this,

an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,

Joseph, son of David,

do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife.

She will give birth to a son,

and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.

That dream changed everything.

Joseph woke up, believed what God had said, and did exactly what the angel told him to do.

...