Sanctuary Foundation Advent Devotional Day 7
The whole town was gossiping. Some said she had gone behind his back. Others said he was to blame. He couldn’t save his marriage, but he could save something of his reputation. And at least he wouldn’t have the blood of his wife or that of an unborn child on his hands.
That first Christmas Joseph was about to sign the divorce papers when a midnight visitor turned up.
“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, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”
We don’t know what Joseph said, but what he did was take Mary home. He opened the door of his home to his apparently unfaithful fiancée and the son that would not be biologically his, providing them with hospitality and sanctuary. It would cost him his reputation, but he trusted God.
Perhaps you are faced with a similar choice: to quietly hold at a distance those whose lives are in turmoil, or to open your home and share your life with them. I think Joseph would encourage you to have courage and make the life-changing commitment to welcome others in, no matter what the cost.
Thank you
Krish Kandiah
Director, Sanctuary Foundation
Thank you for joining us on this Season of Sanctuary Advent Journey looking at the themes of welcome and hospitality that lie at the heart of the Christmas story. As you prepare your hearts and homes for Christmas, please consider opening doors of hope for those around you. For more inspiration and information please visit www.sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk