The Scandalous Beauty of the Christmas Story
Every year at Christmas, I love revisiting the story of Jesus’ birth. It’s a story we’ve all read or heard countless times, but each time, I find new lessons in its timeless beauty. This isn’t just a story about angels, shepherds, and a bright star; it’s about faith, obedience, humility, and trust.
This year, I found myself lingering on Mary and Joseph. Their part in the story is often romanticized, but can you imagine the real emotions, struggles, and doubts they faced? Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable story and the faith it took to step into the unknown.
Mary’s Astonishing Encounter
It’s easy to read through the account of Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel and miss just how overwhelming it must have been.
Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)
“When the angel entered her home, he greeted her and said, ‘You are favored by the Lord! The Lord is with you.’”
Mary was startled and afraid, which feels completely relatable. Yet, after hearing the angel’s message—that she would give birth to the Son of God—she didn’t resist or make excuses. She simply said:
“I am the Lord’s servant. Let everything you’ve said happen to me.”
Let that sink in. Mary, a young, engaged virgin, was being asked to step into a role that would change her life forever. The courage and faith it took to say “yes” is astounding.
This whole story, from top to bottom, is amazing. To me, the story leaves out a lot, like what happens next. After the angel leaves, can you imagine what is swirling around in Mary’s mind? Thoughts like, “Did I just see an angel,” “Am I going to be the mother to the son of God,” “How am I going to explain this to Joseph,” “Will Joseph leave me,” or “What is everyone going to think?” These are not insignificant thoughts, and they would have grave consequences, yet Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let everything you’ve said happen to me.”
Joseph’s Role in the Story
Joseph’s reaction to the news is just as important. The Bible tells us that when he learned Mary was pregnant, he planned to quietly divorce her. This decision speaks to Joseph’s character; he was heartbroken, but he didn’t want to shame Mary.
Then, an angel appeared to him in a dream:
Matthew 1:20-21 (NIV)
“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. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
After that, Joseph’s plans changed. He chose to trust the angel’s message and stand by Mary, even though the whispers and judgment of others were inevitable. Together, they walked a path of obedience that must have felt isolating at times.
Faith in the Face of Judgment
Mary and Joseph likely faced ridicule and doubt from their community. Who would believe Mary’s story about a virgin conception? Even today, people question the truth of the Christmas story.
But here’s the powerful part: Mary and Joseph knew the truth. They knew the angel’s message. They knew they were part of God’s incredible plan. And that truth allowed them to hold their heads high, even when others whispered behind their backs.
Scandal and Redemption
The birth of Jesus was surrounded by scandal—an unwed mother, a virgin conception, a child born in a stable. But that wasn’t the end of it. Jesus’ entire life and ministry challenged societal norms, and His death on the cross was the ultimate scandal.
Yet, Jesus’ story shows us something extraordinary: We are not defined by how we are born, how we die, or what others think of us. We are defined by who we are in God’s eyes and the purpose He has for our lives.
Remembering the Reason for the Season
As we approach Christmas, let’s take time to reflect on the faith and obedience of Mary and Joseph and the love and grace that Jesus brings to the world. Their story reminds us that God’s plans are often unexpected and may even seem impossible—but with God, nothing is impossible.
A Merry Christmas to You!
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas! May we all take time to remember the reason for the season and celebrate the incredible gift of Jesus.
To God Goes the Glory!
Have a Blessed Day!
Let’s End with a Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the Christmas story, help us to see the faith and obedience of Mary and Joseph as an example for our own lives. Give us the courage to trust Your plans, even when they seem impossible or come with challenges. Remind us that we are defined not by our circumstances but by Your love and purpose for us. May we celebrate this Christmas with hearts full of gratitude for the hope and salvation You’ve given us through Jesus. In His precious name, Amen.
So good. So true!
Thank you for sharing the wonderful story of Jesus’ birth. Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas Tania and thank you for this post.
Love this! So grateful this morning for what He has done for us….all people!
Thank you for reminding me about about the Christmas Story. I had forgotten about Joseph’s dream.
Merry Christmas to you and your family. Glory to God.
Beautiful message and Prayer, which I will read on Xmas eve to my family when we all are together.
Thank you 🙏🏻. Have a happy and blessed Christmas with your family
I never thought too much about how they must’ve been judged by their community. I need to make it a new 2025 resolution to be less judgmental. Thank you for this message. Merry Christmas! 🎄🛐
Great message, thank you.
Amen! Loved this.
Beautiful prayer and message. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Merry Christmas. A precious thought today for a wonderful time of the year
blessings always
Thank you for this!
I too love going back and reading and hearing the story of Christ’s birth every Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
That was so beautifully written. I so much love and appreciate your reflective Sunday devotions. God Bless you for sharing with the group. Merry Christmas to you and your whole family! 🙏🏻🎄🙏🏻
Thank you for the reminder of this Beautiful Christmas Story, where the impossible becomes possible and the Love of God is always present in our lives. Amen 😇
What a powerful message today
Merry Christmas to you and your family
Cathy A
Thank you for reminding us “the reason for the season “. Lovely prayer.
The incredible faith of these two is so inspiring. Mary could’ve been stoned to death in that time. Joseph could’ve lost the respect of his community and never had work again. God chose two very ordinary people to work his extraordinary miracle! Praise God! Merry Christmas to you and your family Tania.
I am so glad that the Lord sees and chooses ordinary people to do His work.
The faith of Mary and Joseph is a great example for all of us to follow. Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Thank you for today’s message! You said it all when you wrote “We are not defined by how we are born, how we die, or what others think of us. We are defined by who we are in God’s eyes and the purpose He has for our lives.” Much love to you and your family during this special holy season! 🌟
Beautifully written, Thank you and Merry Christmas!
This is one of best devotionals I have read this Advent season! I always look forward to your Sunday emails. They are always just what I need to hear. Thank You!!!
Tania,
Thank you for your reflections on Mary & Joseph and their obedience and determination to see what being the ‘earthly’ parents of Jesus would mean to them and to the world, even over 2,000 years later.
I am new to your website and enjoy reading and seeing all that you post. At age 82, I am far over 50.
Merry Christmas and blessings,
Welcome, Nancy! I am so happy you stumbled onto my blog.
Merry Christmas to you and your family, Tania.
Blessings to you and yours this Christmas and always❣️
What a great “deep dive” into Mary and Joseph. I have often pondered on their feelings and how confused and frightened they must have been. But what faith!!!! I wish mine was as great.
Beautiful! Merry Christmas to you and yours🎄
Debbie C
Things were scary then and things are scary now. But Jesus knows us and calls us to trust him and to trust God’s plan. Thank you for not only this post but all your other Bible messages. I have directed several people to your blog, because of your messages. May you have a wonderful Christmas and may you continue with your missions throughout 2025 and beyond.
Thank you and Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to All
Beautifully written ❤️
Merry Christmas!
Tania, that was absolutely beautiful! You have such a gift with words…I love that our Blessed Mother said YES! Happy Sunday 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻
P.S. I went to Loft yesterday and purchased the darling black sweater with the toasting glasses. I can’t wait to wear it 🥂
Merry Christmas to you and your family, Tania! Thank you for all that you do!
Thank you for your message this morning. I signed up yesterday on your page and when I saw this I knew I had clicked on your site for a reason. God bless and merry Christmas
Lori, welcome!!! I am thrilled that you enjoyed my Sunday post.
Beautiful thoughts. Merry Christmas.
such a beautiful, incredible story and miracle! I always wondered why the Bible says he almost divorced her, but yet they weren’t married. I figure it’s just their wording rather than an actual planned event.
From what I’ve read engagement to the Jews was like being married. It was a like a contract. The marriage was consummated after the wedding ceremony.
I have tears reading your post this morning! It is such a beautiful reminder to not only remember why we celebrate Christmas but that we all face challenges in our lives but we have Jesus with us always to help us through it. Thank you-beautifully written!
Cathy, I am thrilled to hear you were touched by today’s post. I’ve found stories in the Bible that we are so used to, that we don’t think about what the people involved were going through. They didn’t know the outcome of their stories like we do, and they had to have lots of faith.
thank you for sharing
Thank you for your Sunday thoughts! I enjoy your insights and nuggets of truth from the Bible. I’ll be thinking about the scandal of His birth today and praise God for Mary’s willingness and trust.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!! And all your followers as well 🎄🎄🎄
Loved your post today! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Loved, loved this post Tania!
Merry Christmas to you and your family as well.
Such good things to think on- Thank you☺️
We tend to judge others strictly but give ourselves a pass when we do the same thing. I can’t understand why they place the Wiseman in the nativity scene because they were not there the night Jesus was born. We confuse people especially children. I’m so glad He came!
You are right about how we can be so judgmental of others, but are able to give ourselves a pass.
Christmas Blessings for you, Tania and your family!❤️🎄🎄❤️
Thank you for another beautiful Sunday message and prayer. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Love the way you break this special story down.
Merry Christmas! That was something to think about. This year I want to really learn the Bible I also purschased for myself an antique Navity the details are beautiful .Thank You
There are so many people involved in His birth, and each one could be studied in depth since their stories are so interesting.
Our lesson in my Wednesday night ladies class was about Mary. We watched a few scenes from THE CHOSEN.
Merry Christmas, Tania! I so enjoy your religious inspiration!
Merry Christmas!! Every year we remember the reason for the season but it was so nice to read your post today! Thank you for always including scripture also. Have a blessed season and I LOVE all your posts!!
Amen! Thanks and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
May we all remember the reason for the season and celebrate the birth of Christ! Thank you for this post.
Wonderful story! Amen! Merry Christmas to you Tania and your family!