Learn From Joseph and Mary

496 - Today's Prime Time Devo comes from: 2Sa 11:4,5 “Then David sent messengers, and took her; and she came to him, and he lay with her, for she was cleansed from her impurity; and she returned to her house. 5 And the woman conceived; so she sent and told David, and said, "I am with child." (2 Sam 11:4,5) Two married consenting adults, caught up in sexual passion commit adultery in the middle of the night, and when lust has been spent, “she returned to her house.” It was as if it never happened. But oh oh, what's this? Bathseba's pregnancy test comes back positive, and she gets word to David, “I'm pregnant.” How many times in history have those two words sent tremors of fear into the hearts of those who have illicitly dallied. High school sweethearts who went too far. A night of partying away at college or a singles bar that crossed a line, and suddenly another life has been brought into this world. (You should know by now that life begins at conception) What to do? Perhaps the best thing to do in that situation is to learn from the experience of another couple who were surprised by a pregnancy. Joseph and Mary were engaged to be married, when Mary discovered that she was pregnant. Both Mary and Joseph were sent heavenly messengers who's first words to them were, “ “Do not fear!” This tells us that their initial reaction to the news was fear. It's a perfectly normal reaction under the circumstances! But the heavenly advice is meant for all of us. Don't let your fear guide your actions! Fear will lead you into all sorts of misguided steps to cover your actions. Rather, make the most of the situation! Embrace this new life created and loved by God. Remember there are more than the plans for your life at stake here, God has plans for that little one as well. In Mary and Joseph's case. God planned to use their little Bundle of Surprise to save the world from their sins, yes even their sins of sexual passion and abortion. Fear not beloved, and never forget that even if you have reacted negatively to fear, God forgives and He heals.