Joseph and Mary were amazed at what was being said about Jesus. Luke 2:33 NLT
This was the topic of discussion at church last night; why Joseph and Mary were amazed.
The scene is the presentation of Jesus at the temple according to Num 18:15-16.
But while there a man named Simeon appears, takes the Child, and says, “Lord, now I can die in peace! As you promised me, I have seen the Savior you have given to all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Luke 2:29-32 NLT
Why would all this amazed Joseph and Mary?
A little over 9 months earlier, Mary had been visited by the angel Gabriel who told her, “Don’t be frightened, Mary,” the angel told her, “for God has decided to bless you! You will become pregnant and have a son, and you are to name him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!” Luke 1:30-33 NLT
Not long after that, Joseph is told in a dream “do not be afraid to go ahead with your marriage to Mary. For the child within her has been conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Matt 1:20-22 NLT
Both are told great and wonderful things about this Child and yet they are amazed at the words of Simeon.
Of course, how often are you amazed at what God is doing?
He answers prayer, heals, fills with His Spirit; He saves someone you thought would never be saved.
He blesses, is generous, merciful, and gracious.
We should never stop being amazed by God; How amazing are the deeds of the LORD! All who delight in him should ponder them. Ps 111:2
This Christmas, take time to be amazed by all God has done for you and ponder His grace and blessings.