As Joseph considered quietly divorcing Mary, his betrothed, for what was sure to be seen in their community as infidelity, an angel of the Lord appeared and told him:

“Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).” (Matthew 1:20–23)

Joseph and Mary were to call him Jesus, but the world would also come to call him Immanuel, God with us. This is because Jesus has become the Great High Priest we all desperately needed.

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” (Hebrews 10:19-22)

When we think of Jesus in His prophetic role, we should think, “Listen to Him!” When we think of Him in His priestly role, we should think, “Draw near to Him!” What an incredible thought that God wants us near Him.

Kip Doctherman will be preaching this Sunday from and Kenny Clark will be leading our time of sung worship. Would you pray for each as they prepare?

See you Sunday. Let’s come hungry!