Reflection for March 19 Friday Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24a

Gospel: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24a

Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. 

Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. 

Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.

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Reflection:

Are you obedient to the will of God? 

When Joseph discovered that Mary was pregnant he decided to quietly separate from her. Quietly because Joseph is a quiet and humble man. As much as possible Joseph did not want to create any scene that could result to Mary’s being ostracized by her town mates.    

Perhaps the devil was already insidiously trying to provoke Joseph to do something that would humiliate Mary. But Joseph calmly defeated whatever evil machinations the devil had. He defeated this by listening to what the angel told him to do thus Joseph faithfully loved and protected his family. By his action of obedience to the will of God we can safely conclude that Joseph loved Mary deeply. 

Many fathers today easily give up when their marriage is tested by fire, they easily succumb when tempted by the devil. And they do not anymore listen to the voice of God who always tells them to keep the sanctity of marriage and family life. 

Let us be inspired by the life of Saint Joseph: His humility, His obedience to the voice of God. His unconditional love and protection for his wife and his child. 

Saint Joseph Patron Saint of Fathers, Patron Saint of Family and Patron Saint of Happy Death we beseech you to always pray for us. – Marino J. Dasmarinas