Many people in the world suffer from gossiping. If the rumors are baseless, it is natural for the distress felt to be greater. When Mary was found to be with child before she "had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together," Joseph decided "to send her away secretly" (Matthew 1:18-19).
The reason God chose Joseph as Jesus fleshly father was because of Josephs good heart. As God harbors us in His heart in His limitless love and forgiveness, He does not want us to recklessly judge others or become messengers of their flaws but lead lives that are consumed by love and forgiveness.

~ from Dr. Jaerock Lees column "The Way" carried in The JoongAng Daily