The answer is: Angel of the Lord

Matt 1:20

In the Gospel of Matthew, the Angel of the Lord plays a crucial role during a period of uncertainty for Joseph. Imagine being in his shoes: engaged to a woman who’s suddenly pregnant in a culture where such situations could lead to severe judgments! His feelings of fear and confusion were justifiable. Here’s where the divine intersects with the ordinary; the angel brings a reassuring message that highlights the significance of Mary’s child—not just any child, but one who would be named Jesus and destined to “save his people from their sins” (Matt 1:21).

One intriguing aspect to notice is the repeated appearance of angels throughout the Bible. They often serve as messengers during pivotal moments of both distress and hope. Can you think of Gabriel visiting Mary in Luke’s account? It's like a divine motif, echoing back to the time of Abraham when angels brought news that would alter the course of his family’s lineage.

In Hollywood, angels are sometimes depicted with grand wings soaring above clouds, yet in scriptures, they often appeared in stark, human-like forms, like in Joseph's dream. This emphasizes accessibility; they bring messages meant for everyday people navigating life's complexities.

Joseph heeded the angel's message and played a pivotal role in the story of Jesus, stepping bravely into what could have been a scandalous situation. He became not just a father figure, but a guardian in fulfilling divine purpose. It reiterates that responding to divine guidance often shapes histories, both personal and communal.