Joseph

Joseph, a central figure in the New Testament, is best known as the earthly father of Jesus Christ and the husband of Mary. He is a descendant of King David, which fulfills the Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's lineage. The Gospel of Matthew traces Joseph's genealogy, stating, "Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ" (Matthew 1:16).

Joseph is described as a righteous man, a characteristic that is evident in his actions and decisions. When he discovered that Mary was pregnant before they came together, he initially planned to divorce her quietly to avoid public disgrace. However, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the One conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 1:20). Obedient to the divine message, Joseph took Mary as his wife and cared for her and the child Jesus.

Joseph's role as a protector and provider is further highlighted when he is warned in a dream to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus to escape King Herod's massacre of the infants in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:13-14). After Herod's death, Joseph is again guided by divine instruction to return to Israel, eventually settling in Nazareth (Matthew 2:19-23).

Though Joseph's presence in the Gospels is limited, his faithfulness and obedience to God's will are evident. He is last mentioned in the context of Jesus' visit to the temple at the age of twelve (Luke 2:41-52), after which the Scriptures do not provide further details about his life or death.

Mary

Mary, the mother of Jesus, holds a significant place in Christian theology and history. She is introduced in the Gospel of Luke as a young virgin living in Nazareth, betrothed to Joseph. The angel Gabriel visits her with the announcement that she will conceive a son by the Holy Spirit, saying, "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus" (Luke 1:31). Mary responds with faith and humility, declaring, "I am the Lord’s servant. May it happen to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38).

Mary's role as the mother of Jesus is marked by her deep faith and devotion. She is present at key events in Jesus' life, including His birth in Bethlehem, where she "wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger" (Luke 2:7). She treasures the events surrounding Jesus' early life, pondering them in her heart (Luke 2:19).

Mary's presence is also noted at the wedding in Cana, where Jesus performs His first miracle by turning water into wine (John 2:1-11). She is present during Jesus' crucifixion, standing by the cross with other women, and is entrusted to the care of the Apostle John by Jesus Himself (John 19:25-27).

Mary's significance extends beyond her role as Jesus' mother. She is often seen as a model of faith and obedience to God's will. Her song of praise, known as the Magnificat, reflects her deep understanding of God's mercy and faithfulness (Luke 1:46-55).

In the early Christian community, Mary is present with the disciples in the upper room, praying and waiting for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 1:14). Her life and witness continue to inspire believers to live in faith and obedience to God's calling.