23 December

Go to the land of Israel

“When Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt.“Get up!” the angel said. “Take the child and his mother back to the land of Israel, because those who were trying to kill the child are dead.” So Joseph got up and returned to the land of Israel with Jesus and his mother.” Matthew 2:19-21

The angel in Joseph’s dream gave an instruction. Just as an angel had called the young family away from Israel a few years before, they were now being called back. 

Gods timing was perfect. Herod had died and therefore there was no longer a risk to Jesus in Israel. Joseph and Mary didn’t know this, as they were living in Egypt, where this news would not be known. This new instruction meant that the family were to return to Israel and to face uncertainty and fear, a place that would have traumatic memories for them. But despite the inevitable anxiety, Joseph chose to trust God and follow the angel’s call, with the knowledge that God had protected and led them before and would do again. 

Sometimes God takes us back to situations and places where there has been anxiety and difficult memories. It’s not easy to go, but we can trust our Father God with our fear, to take us through the journey of healing and return to a place of peace. What situation do you need to trust God for this Christmas? 

Thank you, Father, that you call us to trust you with our fears, as you go before and beside us. May we know your presence more this Christmas. Amen 

Helen Putley