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On this Second Sunday of Advent, Pastor Ken continues our current worship series, "God With Us," by exploring the often-overlooked Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. Drawing from Matthew's gospel, we discover the unexpected way God chooses to show up — in the chaos and in a dream — along with the profound mercy Joseph shows Mary, his courageous obedience, and how Joseph can model for us a universal call to care for and nurture all children, even those who are not our own. Joseph's story is a challenge to choose obedience over argument and mercy over revenge, reminding us that Emmanuel is with us every step of the journey.

Sermon Reflections:

Pastor Ken describes Joseph as the "patron saint of people who have no idea." What unexpected, chaotic, or difficult circumstance in your life right now is God inviting you to navigate with faith?

Joseph was described as a "righteous man" because he chose to be merciful and dismiss Mary quietly, rather than pursuing public justice or revenge. In what area of your life is the Lord calling you to choose mercy over demanding what you feel you are owed?

The angel's message to Joseph began with "Do not be afraid." What fear is currently weighing on you, and how does the message of Emmanuel ("God with us") offer peace to that fear?

Joseph's act of naming the child Jesus was an act of adoption, connecting Jesus to the royal line of David. What does Joseph's silent, nurturing example teach you about the nature of true fatherhood, whether earthly or spiritual?

As followers of Christ, we are called to care for all children, not just their own. What is one specific, faithful step you can take in this Advent season to invest in the lives of children in your community or church?

Joseph obeyed God's command without hesitation. Reflect on the last time God presented a clear next step to you. What hindered your immediate obedience, and what can you learn from Joseph's willingness to act upon waking from his dream?

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