The answer is: Angel of the Lord

Matt 1:20

In the Gospel of Matthew, Joseph is bewildered when he learns of Mary's unexpected pregnancy. Imagine being in his sandals, grappling with love, societal expectations, and foundational doubts! However, in the midst of this upheaval, he receives a comforting message from the Angel of the Lord. This angelic appearance is a significant moment not just for Joseph, but for the entire narrative of Jesus' birth.

Interestingly, the idea of heavenly messengers isn’t new. Throughout the Bible, angels frequently deliver crucial information to those chosen for special missions. Think of Gabriel announcing the future birth of John the Baptist to Zacharias and later to Mary herself. This divine intervention highlights a deeper theme: throughout challenging moments, there's a reminder that support and guidance can come from unexpected places.

In ancient Jewish culture, marriage was not just a personal journey; it was a communal and societal event laden with significance—including those structured between families. Joseph's stance to take Mary demonstrates an act of bravery and a willingness to step outside what society expected due to the profound yet unconventional promise of this child coming from God.

Matthew’s narrative dives deep into understanding Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." The angel's reassurance to Joseph cuts through fear, fostering hope and partnership rather than separation. It’s a beautiful reminder: in times of uncertainty, calm may come in unexpected blessings and divine promises.