Joseph is identified as a just man in Matthew 1:19. Evidence of his character was his desire not to make Mary into a public spectacle. Before being told by the angel that Mary was with child by the Holy Spirit, the only logical conclusion he could draw was that she had been unfaithful to him. Yet, believing this to be true and the hurt of betrayal he surely felt, he had the mind to put her away privately rather than making her a public example. This decision is connected to him being a just man. Josephās humility toward the supposed sin of Mary foreshadowed to some degree the humility and love that would be shown by the child Mary was carrying. Joseph was not excusing the sin he thought Mary had committed and neither would Jesus excuse the sins of man, but the love and care that Joseph had for the one thought to have sinned against him, and the love and care that Jesus had for us who did sin against Him, is certainly the love and care that we should have. Jesus did not excuse our sin but loved us enough to pay the debt we owed. Ā Matthew 1:21 āYou shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”Ā Joseph was not excusing Maryās alleged unfaithfulness but, within his power, loved her enough to deal with it in the most humble and godly manner possible. Sin is always messy and hurtful; however, our response should always be motivated by love and humility, even when consequences must be faced by the offender.
Love for the sinner does not excuse the sin but just as Joseph, it helps us address it with kindness and humility. Jesus did not excuse our sin but dealt with it based on the love He had for us.
Prospering Pathway 
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