In Matthew Chapter 1 we find the genealogy of Jesus Christ set forth, and are further informed that Mary, who was engaged to Joseph, has become pregnant.  Joseph intends to not go forward with the marriage, but is visited by an angel who attests to Mary’s virtue.  The angel then testifies to Joseph of the divine mission of Jesus.  It appears that this visitation was unbidden by Joseph, but one can speculate that Mary, and perhaps her family, petitioned the Lord for Joseph’s heart to be softened in light of his decision initially, and I think it likely that this visitation had more to do with the faith and prayers of Mary than anything else.