Decisions, Decisions…

Matthew 2.13-23

Reference: v.23  But when he heard that Achelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there.  Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district Galilee (NIV Bible)

Explore: On TV at the moment there is a series of documentaries by David Attenborough.  He does an amazing job of exploring the lifestyle of animals and the video fotage is just brilliant.  I’m always intrigued to hear how different animals care for their young.  As humans our natural behaviour is for the female to care for the baby, however in some other animals it is the father who is the primary carer or in other cases the young have to fend for themselves.
When we think of Jesus as a baby, our story is very Mary focused.  As Joseph takes more of a “step-father” role it seems he is often out of the picture.  However after Jesus was born Joseph had to make some pretty big decisions to protect his family.  Joseph moved his family around on a number of occasions due to his dedication to keeping his son alive.

Application: Just like Joseph had to make some big decisions to nurture Jesus, we often have to make big decisions to nurture our faith in Jesus.  It may not be as big of a decision as moving city, however it may be a decision about career focus, life partner, or what your money is spent on.  Each of these decisions can help us nurture our relationship with Jesus or maybe put a strain on it.  However, the decision is left up to us.  God gave us freewill so that we would decide whether we would work at building a relationship with Him or walking away for that relationship.  Which direction are you traveling in today?

Prayer: Lord, we know that you are always there for us but when a difficult decision comes along we often feel alone.  Help us to search for You in those times and find Your wisdom to guide us.  Amen.

Matthew