St. Joseph, help and protect us as we follow God’s will
Reflections on the readings for the Solemnity of St. Joseph (March 19, 2020): 2 SM 7:4-5,12-14,16; PS 89:2-3,4-5,27,29; ROM 4:13,16-18,22; MT 1:16,18-21,24
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
Joseph served God and lived a honest, honorable life among his neighbors.
Now, in the middle of Lent as we contemplate the ministry of Christ leading up to His passion and crucifixion, we take time to revere the man who raised Him as his own. Joseph served God and lived a honest, honorable life among his neighbors. Almighty God selected the devout, humble carpenter from the obscure Jewish town of Nazareth, to marry the Virgin Mary and to legally acknowledge Jesus as his own Son. Joseph tried to protect Mary when he learned that she was pregnant, even though he knew that he was not the father of her baby. Then God sent His messenger to explain the truth during his dreams. “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name Him Jesus, because he will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21). So, the Holy Family was complete. Each one obeying the will of the Father in His design for the salvation of the world.
Joseph’s special warm relationship with Jesus and Mary and his unique role in guarding and caring for them have made him a highly honored saint around the world. He in the patron of a number of countries, of workers and travelers. For 150 years he has been esteemed as the Patron of the Universal Church. St. Joseph is also the patron of those who are dying. The faithful man who died in the company of Jesus and Mary surely will help all who desire a holy death.
Suggested missionary action: We can ask St. Joseph to protect our own family as well as all families who have particular problems or hardships. And we can pray that he inspire our fidelity to the Lord each and every day.