March 1, 2026

Jesus of Nazareth

Matthew 2:22-23

On his way he (Joseph) heard that Archelaus, the son of his father Herod, became king of Judea. Josef became afraid to go there. After God talked to him in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So, it became true what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.

Dear Readers,

school crossing guards became known in Germany since 1953. Today's postage stamp, issued in 1971, depicts a crossing guard guiding schoolchildren safely across the street. Today, there are approximately 50,000 volunteer citizens who ensure a safe route to school.

This stamp reminded me of God's care for Joseph. God brings his faithful servant safely back home. But God understands the fear Joseph feels on his journey home. Through a dream, he leads him to Nazareth, where he finds a safe home together with Mary and Jesus.

Three things became important to me within this short travelogue:

1. I am allowed to be scared

Joseph takes a very sober view of the political situation in his homeland. It frightens him about returning. He fears violence against his family. God takes this fear very seriously and shows Joseph the right way. He guides him to the safety of Nazareth. Because that fits perfectly into God's plan!

God knows my fears as well. I can turn to him with my fears and worries and seek his advice and help. I want to trust that he has a good path for me. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who leads me in the right paths for his name's sake (Psalm 23:4). On this I can safely trust !

2. Jesus of Nazareth becomes world-famous.

Nazareth is inextricably linked to Jesus. The Gospel of Mark recounts how Jesus freed a man from an impure spirit in a synagogue. The impure spirit cried out: ‘What do you want from us, Jesus of Nazareth? Did you come to destroy us? I know who you are – the Holy One of God!’

The unseen world knows Jesus of Nazareth intimately and trembles before him! Our world often refuses to acknowledge Jesus. Yet the inscription on Jesus' cross reveals to everyone who was executed there: Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews (INRI). Jesus is the merciful Redeemer and Savior of the world. Every person should know him. No one needs to fear him. He is God's love for us.

3. God's Kingdom keeps growing constantly.

The first Christians had the reputation of being a sect. The Apostle Paul was even accused of being a dangerous leader of this sect (see Acts 23 and 24). In his trial, his opponents claimed (Acts 24:5): ‘We have found this man to be a troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the Nazarene sect. “

What became of it? In 313 AD, the Roman Emperor Constantine made Christianity the state religion. He promoted the spread of the Gospel. Since then, the Gospel of Jesus Christ has brought God's love to many people worldwide.

Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a tiny mustard seed that grows into a large tree (Gospel of Mark 4:30). I think God planted his son Jesus like a mustard seed in the small village of Nazareth. It grew into a large tree whose branches and twigs span the entire world. Are you part of it?

Thank you for visiting and listening. I would be delighted if you would join me again for my next short sermon on March 15th. May our good God bless you and keep you in spirit, soul, and body.