The Solemnity of St Joseph, the husband of Mary

2 Sam. 7:4-5.12-14.16, Rom. 4:13.16-18.22, Mt. 1:16.18-21.24. Today, as the Church celebrates the Solemnity of St Joseph, husband of Mary, we are presented with a Gospel reading on how the birth of Christ the Messiah took place. Joseph was a humble and simple carpenter of the village of Nazareth, probably uneducated and poor, unremarkable and unknown and yet, God chose him to be the one who would protect the Holy Family. He found himself in a situation that could have been described as embarrassing. As he thought of his own good, he also thought of the good of Mary not minding the situation. He was first of all human in his approach to the challenge. Yet he did not rush into conclusion, but listened to God’s voice, wisdom from above to take Mary as his wife. When beset by life’s challenges, what is our first step?

At times we give in to anxiety that we lose control of the matter. The desire to preserve our integrity, “our name” can make us treat others as though they are not human made in God’s image. Sometimes, we also rush into rash judgment without a second thought. We often skip the aspect of seeking God’s decision on issue, considering our moral values, listening to God’s voice in us and asking for help from the right persons. Let us continue to remember the righteousness and courage that St Joseph has shown, in all of his actions, being a good role model for his Foster-Son, our Lord Jesus. Let us also learn from him to be at our best to be more attuned to the ways of God, that we may grow closer to Him, particularly during this season of Lent. Let us rediscover that love which we ought to have for God and do our best to be righteous at all times.

May the Lord grant us the grace to always listen to God’s voice before taking decisions! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!