The answer is: Angel of the Lord

Matt 1:20

In the Gospel of Matthew, an angelic figure reaches out to Joseph with a vital message, encouraging him not to fear taking Mary as his wife. Picture Joseph—a humble carpenter—gripped by confusion and worry at the news of Mary's unexpected pregnancy. In ancient times, this would have put him in a precarious position, raising both social and moral dilemmas. The angel doesn’t just offer reassurance; he also reveals the divine plan behind it all, saying that the child will save people from their sins. This moment is packed with significance.

Angels, in biblical texts, are frequent messengers of God, representing divine intervention when human hesitation has seeped in. Historically, “don’t fear” is one of those phrases often echoed throughout scriptures; it appears when God’s people experience dread. For instance, the same comfort is given to Mary at the Annunciation and to the shepherds at the birth of Jesus.

Interestingly, angels often stem from the Hebrew word "malakh," meaning "messenger," reinforcing this role as divine communication specialists. This episode thus beckons readers to see not only the anxiety of one man in the face of extraordinary events but also points to a broader theme—the call for courage amidst uncertainty. It invites all of us to embrace the unknown, just as Joseph chose to trust the divine message and played a crucial role in history, leading us to compassion and love.