Join us for Christmas Eve!
"Give me your hand" might be counter to how we usually respond to fear, but what if fear can result in connection instead of isolation? Joseph sets aside his fear of rejection and shame in order to stand in solidarity with Mary, shielding her from harm. Their bond makes them each stronger.
We don't live out our callings in isolation--our communal flourising depends on each person stepping into their calling despite their fear. How can we offer support to one another? Where can we reach out when fear makes us feel isolated? And can we use our power and privilege, like Joseph, to stand in solidarity with people whose lives are at risk?
by Nicolette Faison
Inspired by Matthew 1:18-25
by Lauren Wright Pittman
Inspired by Isaiah 41:5-10
When we were children, we fell asleep
with walkie talkies tucked under our pillows.
All that separated us was a bathroom,
a hallway, a few feet of empty space,
but as children, even small distances can feel like miles.
So after the parents whispered prayers over our skinned knees
and spelling tests, after they kissed our sweaty foreheads
and tucked us into bed,
we’d pull the walkie talkies out from under our pillows.
We’d roll the dial on the top of the transceiver.
We’d sputter that invisible tether to life.
And with a few crackles in the quiet of the night,
you’d whisper my name.
I’d press down the button.
I’d promise I was close.
As an adult, I don’t know what ever happened
to those blue-grey walkie talkies.
But I know,
that even today,
if the monsters in the closet feel too real,
and you whisper my name,
I promise I’ll be close.
Read “Joseph's silent submission to Mary's God-given calling is real biblical manhood,” by Michael Frost. Premier Christianity: The UK’s leading Christian magazine. December 20, 2022.
Read “Love is the only sane response in a time of fear,” by Laura Kirk. SOJOURNERS. February 13, 2025.
Read “10 Ways Your Church Can Take Solidarity Beyond Sympathy,” by Hannah Bowman. SOJOURNERS. March 4, 2025.