With Christmas just a day away, I have been pondering the various characters found in the Christmas narrative. It occurred to me that if Joseph was like me at all, he could have had the following conversation with God:
[Setting: A stable in Bethlehem. A few hours after Mary delivered baby Jesus. Joseph makes sure both of them are sleeping and steps outside for some fresh air.]
Joseph [looking up at the night sky]:
God, I'm so sorry for how this turned out. I really didn't mean for your Son to be born in a stable. I've failed you miserably, haven't I? I can't believe how improper a place we ended up in! I'm so embarrassed. I could have called ahead or sent someone to book a room for us at least. But then again, it would have been unlikely that anyone would have taken us in, especially when Mary was so close to labour. People don't want the messiness of a birth in their house, especially not the birth of a child with questionable origins... Anyway, again, I'm really sorry God. You trusted me with taking care of your Son and I've already botched it. I wish I could provide better for Jesus - and Mary, too. [Sighs.]
Under the twinkling stars, Joseph hears this response from God:
Joseph, Joseph... relax! You've done your best. It was honourable of you to have brought Mary with you to Bethlehem, especially when everyone could see she was pregnant. You put your reputation on the line for me. That matters to me. Besides, now that you're not at the inn, I can invite whomever I want to come visit! The shepherds will be here shortly. You know, Joseph, don't be so hard on yourself. I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
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Have you felt like Joseph? What is God's response to you?
