By Nameswar Baliar Singh csc –
Readings: 2 Sam 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16; Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22; Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a
Today we celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, the husband of Mary. He is the model for workers and the protector of the Church. Brothers of Holy Cross celebrate this feast as their principal feast. The readings of the day remind me of three things- God’s promises, grace, and faithful dedication. In the first reading, God says, “I will be his father and he shall be my son.” This was fulfilled in the context of Joseph and Jesus.
The second reading says that grace is granted on the foundations of faith. The gospel reading suggests to us that to become God’s chosen instrument, we must be faithful, dedicated, and trusting. When I reflect on the life of St. Joseph, I am reminded of the purity of his heart. Joseph knew that Mary’s child was not his, but he willingly responded to God’s will to protect Mary from shame by accepting her as his wife. He remained chaste for the sake of God, obeyed God in everything, and was just. He fulfilled the God-given responsibility with humility, utmost faith, and confidence amidst all trials and difficulties.
Do I have courage like St. Joseph? Sometimes when problems arise in life, I try to find a place to hide myself. When someone gives me a responsibility, I try to give excuses as I am afraid whether I will be able to fulfil it. At times, because of my ego, I look forward to positions of high respect and appreciation. But to become an authentic faithful child of God, I need to cultivate a habitual union with God and accept the reality of life like St. Joseph. Today I am invited to resemble such purity and holiness like St. Joseph, who is the perfect example of faith. It is an invitation for me to discern God’s will by affirming my faith in God despite the challenges and struggles.