Matthew 1:18–24
In Matthew’s account of Jesus’ birth, Joseph stands as a quiet reminder that some of God’s greatest work is done far from the spotlight. When Joseph receives news that would break any man, he does not react impulsively. Instead, he slows down long enough to listen for God’s voice. His first instinct is compassion, and his second is obedience.
Behind‑the‑scenes faith always begins with a listening heart. Joseph then models a second kind of faith, obedience without applause. His most significant acts of obedience happen in the dark: taking Mary as his wife, naming the child Jesus, and accepting a calling he did not choose. There is no platform, no recognition, no public affirmation. Some of the holiest work fathers do will never be posted, praised, or public, yet God sees every quiet “yes.”
Joseph also shows us what it means to protect what God entrusts. He becomes the guardian of God’s promise, leading his family through danger, uncertainty, and transition. He doesn’t preach a sermon; he lives one. Faithful fathers quietly build safety around the people God gives them. As we reflect on this passage, we honor the men who pray quietly, work early and come home late, fix what’s broken, show up when it matters, and carry burdens no one sees. God sees what others overlook, and the kingdom is built by men who are faithful behind the scenes.
Weekly Prayer
Gracious and faithful God, thank You for the quiet ways You work in our lives, in the moments no one notices, in the decisions made without applause, and in the steady obedience that shapes our days. As we reflect on Joseph’s example in Matthew 1:18–24, teach us to cultivate faith that listens when life is confusing. Slow our hearts enough to hear Your voice before we react and give us the compassion Joseph showed when his world shifted unexpectedly.
Lord, help us walk in faith that obeys without applause. Strengthen us to say “yes” to You even when the path is hidden, the cost is quiet, and the work is unseen. Remind us that You honor every act of obedience, even the ones no one else will ever know about.
And Father, form in us faith that protects what You entrust. Make us people who build safety, stability, and peace around those we love. Help us guard the gifts, relationships, and responsibilities You’ve placed in our care with humility and courage.
This week, bless every man who serves behind the scenes, those who pray quietly, work faithfully, carry burdens silently, and show up when it matters. May they feel seen, strengthened, and encouraged by Your presence. And may all of us walk in the quiet confidence that You see what others overlook, and You delight in the faithfulness that happens far from the spotlight.
Yesterday we honored the fathers, grandfathers, mentors, and steady men in our church family, the ones who lead quietly, love faithfully, and show up when it matters most. Today, on this Monday after Father’s Day, I want to extend that gratitude a little further.
To every man who serves behind the scenes, who carries responsibilities no one sees, who protects, provides, prays, and perseveres, thank you.! Your faithfulness matters more than you know. Joseph reminds us that some of God’s greatest work is done through men who never stand in the spotlight, yet walk in obedience all the same.
We also hold close those for whom this weekend was tender, those missing fathers, longing to be fathers, navigating strained relationships, or carrying quiet grief. May the God who is Immanuel, God with us meet you with comfort and strength in the days ahead.
As we step into a new week, may we all walk with the same humility, courage, and trust that Joseph showed. And may the Lord continue shaping us into people who reflect His steady, faithful love.
Grace and peace to you this Monday.
Weekly Prayer Request
The Fentry Family, Peter Fowle, Karen Kaiser, Scott Harvey, Kim McMillan, John Ramsey, and The Family of Travion Taylor and Garry Wilson.
* If you would like to add someone to the weekly prayer list please reply or send an email to tuxedo.park@sbcglobal.net
Announcements
Zumba w/ Suzanne: Is officially on summer break. Classes will pause for the season and resume later in the year. We hope you enjoy a safe, restful, and joy‑filled summer. Stay tuned for updates on our return date!
Bread & Word Ministry – Pantry Support Needed: We are looking for a few helping hands this Tuesday, June 23rd@ 11:00 a.m., and on the 4th Tuesday morning each month as we receive and organize our food inventory. If you’re able to assist, please see Carol M. for details.
Bread & Word: (Food Pantry and Clothing Center) will be open this Thursday, June 25, 2026 @ 5:00 p.m., and on the following Thursdays: 7/9/26, 7/30/26, 8/13/26, 8/27/26, 9/10/26, 9/24/26, 10/8/26, 10/29/26, 11/12/25, 12/3/26 and 12/17/26.
Visiting Noah’s Ark & the Creation Museum: On the weekend of September 11–13, we are going on a church trip to Kentucky to visit the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum. We’ll leave on Friday evening, spend Saturday exploring both attractions, and return either Saturday night or early Sunday morning in time for worship. If you’d like to be part of this meaningful and memorable weekend, please let Pam M. or Tammy O. know. A sign‑up sheet is also available at the registration desk.
- 🧺 🌭 Church Picnic: Sunday, July 19, 2026.
- ⚾ 🧢 Indians Baseball Outing: Friday, August 21, 2026.
- 🦁🛶 Noah’s Ark & the Creation Museum: September 11-13, 2026.
Clothing Closet
The Clothing Closet is seeking donations for any of the items listed below.
Gently used items are acceptable. Bolded items are sorely needed.
Children’s Summer Clothes
Laundry Detergent
Bath Towels
Pillowcases
Sheets
Hooded Sweatshirts (size: Small, Medium, Large)
Men’s Jeans (waist size: 32-38)
Men’s Jeans (waist size 30-32)
Men’s Sneakers (size: 9-12)
Women’s Tennis Shoes (sizes: 8-9 ½)
Women’s T-Shirts (size: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large)
Boost & Ensure Empty Bottles
Sweat Pants
