St. Joseph cared for the Holy Family just as we care for ours
Reflections on the readings for St. Joseph the Worker / Tuesday of the Fifth Sunday of Easter (May 1, 2018): ACTS 14:19-28, PS 145:10-11,12-13,21, JN 14:27-31
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.
Today we honor St. Joseph under his title as patron of workers.
This steadfast son of Israel was also the loyal and loving husband of the Mary and guardian of Jesus. The childhood of Jesus was significantly defined by His time in His foster father’s carpenter shop in Nazareth. Joseph provided for the livelihood of his family through his skills. No doubt his hands – the same hands that showed Jesus the skills of an artisan – made the furniture in their home. In other families in their community, other parents were sharing their occupations with their own youngsters.
This passing down of work traditions is less common than it once was, but the need to work, to care for our families and to be people of integrity continues. The church has long taught respect for all labor that contributes to the welfare of the community, whatever form it takes. Today, the lack of a decent job at a decent wage is a serious problem for many. Whatever our work-related problems, we can ask St. Joseph for help. And we can find comfort in words his foster Son Jesus said during His ministry: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubles or afraid” (John 14:27).
Suggested missionary action: We can honor St. Joseph the Worker by praying for his intercession for all who labor each day to provide a livelihood for themselves and their family – and for those who need work.
