Today, we celebrate the solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the gospel we heard about mission of Jesus is to save his people from their sins and that of Joseph. In this mission, Joseph would play a leading role in the work of redemption, that of a protector. Joseph would be the provider and protector of the son of God and the holy family.
What an awesome responsibility! Joseph is to take on this role without fear as the angel said, “Do not be afraid, Joseph.”
Like Joseph you may have been confused of the plan of God for you. Unlike Joseph you may have not receive a visit from an angel in a dream. But somehow in a way only known to God, He communicates his message to you. God speaks directly to our minds and hearts, and also through the care and mediation of countless hosts of angels in various ways. The angels of God are constantly bringing us divine messages and inspirations. The question is whether or not we are listening.
We are called to be witnesses. We are called to allow ourselves to follow the glorious witness of Saint Joseph as he responded to our Lord’s will with perfect faith and trust.
Today is a good day to pray for all parents and those who play that role. Parents are the great protectors for their families. They are the first teachers for their children.
May all parents have the grace and ability to taken on their role and be able to listen to the voice of God. May they have the courage to overcome the anxiety that their role entails.
Let’s conclude with the prayer to Saint Joseph:
To you, O blessed Joseph,
do we come in our tribulation,
and having implored the help of your most holy Spouse,
we confidently invoke your patronage also.
Through that charity which bound you
to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God
and through the paternal love
with which you embraced the Child Jesus,
we humbly beg you graciously to regard the inheritance
which Jesus Christ has purchased by his Blood,
and with your power and strength to aid us in our necessities.
O most watchful guardian of the Holy Family,
defend the chosen children of Jesus Christ;
O most loving father, ward off from us
every contagion of error and corrupting influence;
O our most mighty protector, be kind to us
and from heaven assist us in our struggle
with the power of darkness.
As once you rescued the Child Jesus from deadly peril,
so now protect God’s Holy Church
from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity;
shield, too, each one of us by your constant protection,
so that, supported by your example and your aid,
we may be able to live piously, to die in holiness,
and to obtain eternal happiness in heaven.
Amen.
Have a wonderful Week
