In Honor of Saint Joseph for the Month of March

Saint Joseph, often portrayed as a quiet and humble figure, embodies the essence of justice through his actions and character. While he may not have lofty narratives or miraculous deeds attributed to other saints, his righteousness and integrity shine through his quiet demeanor. At the heart of        Joseph’s character lies his unwavering commitment to goodness and fidelity to his beliefs. Despite challenges and uncertainties he faced, such as discovering Mary’s pregnancy before their marriage, Joseph chose to act with compassion and integrity. Instead of publicly shaming Mary or seeking   revenge, he resolved to quietly divorce her, demonstrating his respect for both her and the law.

The Gospel of Matthew then explains that an angel came to Joseph in a dream and told him not to be afraid to take Mary into his home, because the child Mary was carrying was not conceived with    another man, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Another Joseph’s sense of justice extends beyond his personal relationships. As the foster father of Jesus, he embraced the responsibility of nurturing and protecting the Son of God. When King Herod sought to harm the infant Jesus, Joseph took decisive action to safeguard his family, fleeing to Egypt until it was safe to return. In doing so, he exemplified his commitment to justice by prioritizing the well-being and safety of his loved ones above all else.

As the head of the Holy Family, Saint Joseph played a central role in providing guidance, protection, and support to Mary and Jesus. Despite the absence of explicit mention in the Gospels, Joseph’s leadership within the family unit is implied through his actions and responsibilities. Joseph’s role as the head of the Holy Family encompasses more than just physical protection; it extends to spiritual guidance and emotional support as well. As the earthly father of Jesus, Joseph nurtured and guided the Son of God in his formative years, modeling for him the values of faith, humility, and compassion. His presence as a loving and supportive father figure undoubtedly left a lasting impression on Jesus, shaping the man he would become.

In addition to his role as a protector and provider, Joseph’s presence as the head of the Holy Family symbolizes the importance of strong familial bonds and the sanctity of marriage. His relationship with Mary exemplifies mutual respect, trust, and love, serving as a model for Christian marriages and family life.

Furthermore, Joseph’s occupation as a carpenter reflects his dedication to honest labor and providing for his family. Through his diligent work, Joseph upheld principles of fairness and integrity, earning a livelihood through honorable means. His dedication to his craft serves as a testament to the virtue of authentic labor and the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities with diligence and humility.

While Saint Joseph’s life may not be marked by extraordinary feats or dramatic confrontations, his quiet strength and steadfast commitment to justice resonate deeply with believers. He teaches us that true righteousness does not always manifest in grand gestures or public displays, but rather in the simple, everyday choices we make to uphold our values and treat others with fairness and compassion.

In a world often consumed by noise and spectacle, Saint Joseph stands as a beacon of humility and justice, reminding us that even the quietest of saints can leave a profound impact on the world. Let us take his quiet   examples and infuse them into our lives.

Blessings,

Deacon Mike