Joseph was preparing to share his life with Mary. They were betrothed—a serious promise of marriage—but had not yet begun living together. When Joseph learned that Mary was expecting a baby, he planned to end their union quietly, without bringing shame upon her.
While Joseph was considering this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. The angel told him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife. Her baby had been conceived through the Holy Spirit.
Mary would have a son, and Joseph was to name Him Jesus, because He would save His people from their sins.
When Joseph woke, he did what the angel had told him and took Mary as his wife. When her son was born, Joseph named Him Jesus.
Joseph put his trust into action. His response reminds Christian families that faith can guide us towards courage, kindness and care for others.
Talk together: What did Joseph do after he woke from his dream?
One small action: Choose one way to care for someone today—help with a task, offer a kind word or include someone in a game.
Bible reference: Matthew 1:18–25. This is a shortened retelling.
For more family questions and a Courage Star activity, read our longer Joseph’s Dream story and activity.
The Miracle of ChristmasContinue the Christmas story with The Miracle of Christmas: A Meaningful Coloring Book About Jesus’ Birth, by Rogério Santos. Explore Mary, Joseph and Jesus’ birth through simple storytelling and pages to colour together. |