An understudy is defined as an actor who studies a part to replace the usual actor if necessary.  In the story of the Nativity – Joseph is the understudy.  He took the place of the Heavenly Father and acted as stepfather of Jesus through His early life. 

We aren’t told much about him, except that he was a righteous man and followed directions to the letter.  When he discovers the condition of his soon to be bride, he doesn’t run away or give up on her.  Instead of subjecting her to disgrace – not to mention the possibility of a death by stoning – he decides to break the engagement quietly.  It’s then that we see the kind of man God has chosen to be the earthly father of His Son.

Joseph has undoubtedly been anguishing over what to do.  He knows he wasn’t responsible for Mary’s pregnancy – he wonders about her faithfulness – he wants to do what’s right and yet his heart has been torn to pieces.  He’s exhausted by confusion, anxiety and depression so he escapes into sleep.

Enter Gabriel – the messenger angel who has been making his voice heard a lot lately.   He tells Joseph not to be afraid.  What an opening line!  Here you are standing in front of a holy angel and he tells you not to be afraid.  Joseph seems to be calmed by these words, for he doesn’t say a word – he simply listens.  Gabriel tells him that the child Mary has conceived is from God and Joseph has been chosen to stand in for Him – so to speak – and raise Him as his own adopted Son.

Joseph had the answer he needed to move ahead with his marriage plans and  father Mary’s unborn Son.  He also showed great leadership in his role as father, by being the one who guided his stepson’s earthly path in the ways of His Heavenly Father.

It’s not easy being an understudy.   You have to do everything the main character does, but you rarely get a chance to put your work into action.  God gave Joseph this special opportunity to take the stage for a brief time so that His will would be done.

Lord, give me a faith like Joseph’s – receiving what you have in store for me with quiet acceptance.  Let me be still and know that you are God.   Amen!