Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary
Scripture:
2 Samuel 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16
Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22
Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24a or Luke 2:41-51a
Reflection:
On this beautiful Solemnity of St. Joseph, the Church calls us to ponder the powerful witness of the foster father of Christ and spouse of Mary. He is a man we do not know by his words but rather by his actions. However, Scripture does supply us with one word to describe him…righteous. This is a word that is also used by St. Paul to describe Abraham in today’s second reading.
The word righteous today commonly carries with it a negative connotation, because we often tacitly attach the word “self” to it. The self-righteous person considers himself to be the measure of what is good and holy. He is the Pharisee who looks at the penitent tax collector and thinks he is blessed not to be like him. Jesus tells us that such a man will not be justified. (Luke 18:9-14)
One who is truly righteous, however, understands that only God can judge a person’s soul, even one’s own soul. Thus, a righteous heart is also a humble and merciful heart. When righteous, one also acknowledges the right order of reality where God is the both the source of all things and our ultimate goal. Jesus has promised that those who hunger and thirst for this understanding will be satisfied. (Matt 5:6) Abraham’s righteousness was satisfied through many sons. Joseph’s was satisfied through one, the Son of God.
St. Joseph, pray for us.
Megan Silas is a Lay Passionist at Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center in Houston, Texas.