The seven sorrows and joys of Joseph.

Joseph's first sorrows: Mary's pregnancy-- heart -break for Joseph, disaster for their plans in life, compassion for Mary ( mt 1:18-19). When Joseph came to know that his would be wife was already bearing a child, he was deeply sad. A sword of grief must have pierced his heart, compelling him to choose between two difficult options: accept Mary as his spouse ( against the prevalent social customs). or break the egagement ( in keeping with the social customs). Unaware of God's mighty plans, with a heavy and sorrowful heart, Joseph chose the letter. However, he felt deep sympathy for Mary, a glimpse of what would follow flashing through his mind-- social ostracism, humiliating alienation, public disgrace, perhaps even stoning unto death, none of which Joseph, being a just man, would have ever wanted for his beloved, And so he decides to abandon her privately. In today's world we find that suspicion is quite common among spouses --- husbands doubting the fidlity of their wives and wives that of their husbands. Many families have become the victims of misunderstanding and distrust. Many a marriage has broken down, leaving the children concerned virtually orphan.