Read Matthew 1:18-25
In verse 19, Matthew tells us that Joseph planned to end the marriage betrothal quietly despite the right he had to publicly disgrace Mary. She could be stoned for such an offense as turning up pregnant during the engagement process. But Matthew wrote that Joseph was a righteous man. He sought to be right with God and right with people. He did not choose to use his righteousness as a platform to hurt Mary, but to forgive, to quietly dissolve the marriage, and allow her and him to start over.
We know, however, that the angel came to Joseph in a dream and the rest of the story flows from there. But what an amazing man to serve as Jesus' spiritual leader. A man quick to forgive. A man not torn with rage and vengeance, but full of mercy. Righteousness is not to be used to tell others how unrighteous they are. The righteous know how to rely on God's mercy and grace. And they are willing to extend grace and mercy to others.
Are you quick to judge? Are you prone to anger and thoughts of revenge? Consider your own shortcomings and failures. God has been so kind in dealing with you. May you extend this same kindness and slack toward others. God's plan always extends to others.
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