Joseph sometimes gets forgotten in the Christmas story, but he’s one of the coolest people! He was a regular carpenter in a small town called Nazareth. He wasn’t rich or famous. He just worked hard making things out of wood. But the Bible says Joseph was a “just man”—that means he always tried to do what was right and fair.

He was excited to get married to his fiancée Mary, but then something crazy happened! Mary told Joseph she was going to have a baby! Can you imagine how confused and hurt he must have felt? But Joseph still tried to be kind. His first thought was break up with Mary without anyone really knowing—Joseph didn’t want to embarrass Mary in front of everyone.

Then something amazing happened! An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Don’t worry, Joseph! This baby is from God. It’s God’s Son!” And you know what Joseph did? He believed God and obeyed! He married Mary, took care of her, and raised Jesus as his own son. He taught Jesus how to be a carpenter. He protected Jesus when the bad King Herod wanted to hurt Him.

Joseph wasn’t perfect, but he was available and faithful to do what God asked him to do. You don’t have to be famous or super talented for God to use you. You just need to be willing to listen to God and do what He asks—just like Joseph!

Take Action: Joseph was “available” for God to use. Being available means being ready to help, ready to listen, and ready to obey! This week, look for one way you can be available for God to use you. Maybe it’s helping your parents without being asked, being kind to someone who’s lonely, or telling a friend about Jesus. Be like Joseph—just be available!