We don't often hear much said about Joseph's heartache before the angel appeared to him.
The crushing ache of his heart when he learned of
Mary's apparent betrayal.
The realization that all the love he had poured into making a life for the two of them—all the hopes and dreams—were gone.
We don't know how long God waited before sending the angel to tell Joseph of the miracle within Mary's womb, but it was long enough for him to plan a quiet divorce.
Long enough for the tears to fall and the heart to shatter.
What joy must have filled Joseph's heart when he learned that the love of his life had not betrayed him, but was carrying the very Son of God! Almighty God was fulfilling His promise of salvation through this woman he loved so much.
What Joseph thought would bring the end to his hopes and dreams actually fulfilled the hopes and dreams of the entire world.
Sometimes what appears to be the end of your world is really the salvation of your world.
"But while he (Joseph) thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:20-21)
