Greetings Prayer Warriors,
On this celebrated feast of St Joseph, the Spirit calls me to reflect on St Joseph as a husband and spouse. Scripture has very few stories about him, and not one recorded word he spoke, yet it seems in the silence, his virtues shine brightly.
When he couldn’t fathom how his betrothed was with child, he, a righteous man, desired to bring no shame upon Mary. Instead, he was compassionate and merciful. When he learned the truth of her pregnancy, he embraced God’s call in the greatest of humility.
Do you not know that if you present yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? Romans 6:16
His trust in the Holy will of God was astounding, especially in light of all the difficulties that the Holy Family continued to experience. (No room at the inn; fleeing into Egypt; losing Jesus in the caravan, etc). He was a man who daily had to surrender to God’s providence.
Joseph was a strong protector, yet a gentle and loving spouse. He was a hardworking provider, and a faith-filled man, who spiritually led his family, teaching them to honor all of God’s laws.
It is little wonder that God chose Joseph to be the earthly father of Jesus, as Joseph emulated a life united to the will of the Father.
The LORD’s will shall be accomplished through him. Because of his anguish he shall see the light; because of his knowledge he shall be content; Isaiah 53:10-11
Joseph was a man who emptied himself for those he loved, prefiguring Jesus’s desire to empty himself for us, his beloved children.
Let us pray with faith, that as married couples we can emulate the virtues of Joseph: humility, gentleness, fortitude, charity, faith, meekness, steadfastness, and eternal hope.
St. Joseph, Spouse of the Mother of God, pray for us!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
St. Joseph demonstrates the way to the Truth. Pass it on!
