The True Story of Christmas: Myths About Mary and Joseph
In part one of this series, The True Story of Christmas: Separating Tradition from Scripture, we explored common misconceptions about Jesus’ birth. Now, let’s focus on myths about Mary and Joseph. These two central figures of the Christmas story have been surrounded by misunderstandings for centuries.
What does the Bible really say about Mary and Joseph? Let’s dispel the myths and uncover the truth behind their incredible journey.
Myth #1: Mary and Joseph Were Always Calm and Confident
The Myth:
Mary and Joseph are often portrayed as serene and confident, calmly accepting every challenge of Jesus’ birth.
The Truth:
Mary and Joseph were human, and their journey was filled with challenges. When Mary learned she would give birth to the Messiah, she was “confused and disturbed” (Luke 1:29, NLT). Joseph, too, struggled when he discovered Mary was pregnant. Matthew 1:19 (NLT) says, “Joseph…decided to break the engagement quietly” because he was a righteous man who didn’t want to disgrace her.
An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, assuring him that Mary’s child was from the Holy Spirit. Despite their doubts and fears, Mary and Joseph showed remarkable faith by obeying God’s plan.
Myth #2: Mary Rode Comfortably on a Donkey to Bethlehem
The Myth:
Mary is often pictured riding a donkey to Bethlehem while Joseph walks beside her.
The Truth:
The Bible does not mention how Mary traveled to Bethlehem. Luke 2:4-5 (NLT) says, “Joseph…traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.”
Whether Mary walked, rode a donkey, or used another method of travel is unknown. What we do know is that the journey was approximately 70-90 miles over rugged terrain. For a pregnant woman, this trip would have been grueling, regardless of transportation.
Myth #3: A Grumpy Innkeeper Turned Them Away
The Myth:
We often hear the story of an innkeeper who turned Mary and Joseph away, forcing them to stay in a stable.
The Truth:
Luke 2:7 (NLT) states, “There was no lodging available for them.” The word translated as “inn” comes from the Greek kataluma, which more accurately means “guest room.” Mary and Joseph likely stayed in the common area of a home or a shelter where animals were kept, not an inn.
The idea of a grumpy innkeeper is a later addition to the story. Instead, the crowded conditions in Bethlehem reflect the impact of the census and the humble setting of Jesus’ birth.
Myth #4: Joseph Was a Passive Figure
The Myth:
Joseph is sometimes seen as a quiet bystander, playing a small role in the Christmas story.
The Truth:
Joseph’s role was critical. He obeyed God’s commands, even when they were difficult. After the Magi visited Jesus, an angel warned Joseph to flee to Egypt to protect his family from Herod’s wrath. Matthew 2:14 (NLT) says, “That night Joseph left for Egypt with the child and Mary, his mother.”
Joseph showed incredible faith and leadership. He provided safety and support for Mary and Jesus, fulfilling his God-given role in the Savior’s early life.
Myth #5: Mary and Joseph Fully Understood God’s Plan
The Myth:
Many assume Mary and Joseph fully understood their part in God’s plan from the beginning.
The Truth:
While Mary and Joseph knew Jesus was the promised Messiah, they didn’t fully comprehend what that meant. After the shepherds visited and shared the angels’ message, Luke 2:19 (NLT) says, “Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often.”
Years later, when Jesus stayed behind in the temple, Mary and Joseph didn’t understand His words about “being in His Father’s house” (Luke 2:49-50, NLT). Their understanding grew as God’s plan unfolded.
The Humanity of Mary and Joseph
The myths about Mary and Joseph often overshadow their humanity. They weren’t perfect or superhuman. They faced doubts, fears, and challenges. But their faith and obedience to God’s plan show us how ordinary people can play extraordinary roles in His story.
Closing Thoughts
Mary and Joseph’s journey wasn’t easy, and it wasn’t free from fear or uncertainty. By understanding the myths about Mary and Joseph, we see how their faith and obedience brought God’s plan of salvation to life.
📖 Explore more about The True Story of Christmas in this series!
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