And he arose, took the Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel.
This verse portrays Joseph’s steadfast faith and obedience: he not only heard the word of the Lord, but immediately acted, trusting in God’s guidance. Joseph’s course shows the believer’s right disposition—to hear the voice of God and to act without delay. The return of him and the members of his family to Israel symbolizes a new stage of God’s plan: the Savior’s return among His people. This episode also confirms that when a man is guided by the will of God, the Lord Himself orders the circumstances and in peace leads him to the appointed place.