March 19, 2012

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

Truly,  today is a day of celebration in the midst of Lent.

Read It:
Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.
Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.
When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph,
but before they lived together,
she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.
Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame,
decided to divorce her quietly.
Such was his intention when, behold,
the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,
"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."
When Joseph awoke,
he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him
and took his wife into his home.

Reflect on It: Joseph was a good an holy man. In the midst of a season of penance and sorrow, we celebrate him today. Having the virtue of humility, he paves the way for us of what we should be like: docile to the Spirit, humble, full of love for others. He could have embarassed Mary, but instead he listened to the Lord and took care of her forever. Pray today that you are like St. Joseph in his undending love for his spouse.

Pray about It: Sweet Jesus, your earthly father Joseph was a good man, gentle and strong, full of love for your mother. Help me to be small and humble like him today.

Live It! Challenge: Today is a Solemnity during the Lenten Season. It is truly a cause to celebrate, so today, celebrate!