The Silent Hero
He was a man of few recorded words, and diminutive published annals, but he imparted a colossal impact upon the making of history and our world today. Not much is known about Joseph, who was integral to Mary and Jesus’ survival and well-being. He was a Jewish carpenter, a direct descendant of The House of David, Mary’s spouse, and Jesus’ foster father, but who ‘was’ Joseph? What mattered to him, and filled his day?
Closer examination shows Joseph as a humble, obedient, righteous, and gracious servant of God. The Lord chose Mary to bear His Son, and Joseph was an essential and influential element of this Divine orchestration. Three times Angels spoke to Joseph, and he responded with devout and unwavering conviction.
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The first Angel urged him to marry Mary despite her ‘unfavorable’ condition as such tribulations were frowned upon in ancient Jewish law. The next instance was a clear warning to leave Bethlehem at once to avoid the infant massacre, and flee to Egypt. The final account is after Herod’s death, which stipulates his return to Nazareth in Galilee. He obeyed, and his family was kept safe in his loving and protective care. Is it any wonder that he was later canonized, and deemed the Patron Saint and Protector of the Catholic Church?
Today we venerate St. Joseph for all he has done and continues to do. His virtuous integrity shines through today’s muck and malice reminiscent of the foretold of Bethlehem Star with its fulfillment of God’s promise and eternal hope that everything is in His Divine care. God entrusted him to raise His precious Son. No small feat, and not one to underestimate any sanctions, Joseph accepted. As he welcomed and surrendered to all that The Father had asked of him, and instilled into his being with each swing of his hammer and placement of a wooden beam, the artistry of a true craftsman and servant became one. No words needed. His silence was outweighed by his actions.
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Happy St. Joseph’s Day!
Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
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