Solemnity of St. Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Theme: Joseph, a man of faith

Today the church celebrates the Solemnity of St. Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On a day like this, we are presented with the opportunity to reflect on the person of Joseph. His role from the very beginning, when he was chosen by God to be the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the father of Jesus in the Holy Family, is worthy of emulation. When Mary was found to be with a child, he resolved not to disgrace her publicly, until the visit of the Angel. His acceptance of the Angels message about the child Mary was carrying, shows the depth of his faith in God. This is a decision that is quite difficult and challenging, even in our own time. This was possible because of the kind of person Joseph was, a nice man, patient, and a man of great faith. It is only one with faith in God that will accept such a message from the Angel, taking into consideration how the society will react to such a situation.

My brothers and sisters in Christ, the role of St. Joseph in the Holy Family is also worthy of emulation. He was always there for his family, whenever he was needed. Suffice it to say that he played the wonderful role of both a husband and a father. We see that at different times in their life as a family. The first one that readily comes to mind for me is, during the birth of Jesus Christ, searching for a place for the birth of Jesus Christ. Another one is the flight to Egypt; the scripture told us how he took the child Jesus and Mary to Egypt. There are some other examples where Joseph played his role as both a good husband and father. His lifestyle should encourage all of us, as Christians and especially to fathers generally. Let us emulate his faith, patience, sense of responsibility and selflessness. All these put together in our lives, will make us wonderful ambassadors for Christ in our world.

We are told in St. Mathews gospel that when Joseph woke up from sleep “He did as the angel of the Lord commanded him”. He did not doubt or question the message of the angel. My brothers and sisters in Christ, let us resolve today to imbibe some of the wonderful attributes of Saint Joseph in our daily lives. All these wonderful attributes put together is what gave rise to the scripture referring to him as a just man in today’s gospel. We are all encouraged today to strive for perfection and holiness in life. We pray that through the intercession of St. Joseph God will grant us the grace for holiness in life, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.

Solemnity of St. Joseph, by Fr. Jude Ifeanyi Ifezime, C.S.Sp