He Did As Commanded

Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary

By Beth DeCristofaro

Brothers and sisters: It was not through the law that the promise was made to Abraham and his descendants that he would inherit the world, but through the righteousness that comes from faith.  For this reason, it depends on faith, so that it may be a gift, and the promise may be guaranteed to all his descendants, not to those who only adhere to the law but to those who follow the faith of Abraham, who is the father of all of us … (Romans 4:13, 16)

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…When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. (Matthew 1:  20, 24)

Piety

May I converse with Jesus with as much love as you did.

Help me to feel him near to experience the healing of his love.

You know what I need, St. Joseph.  Intercede with your son for me.  Amen

        (Prayer attributed from 16^th century)

Study

Faith, says Paul, is keystone to God’s promise to Abraham of a lineage that would number the stars, would bring God directly to man and would last until forever.  It is faith which prompts Mary’s fiat and faith which convinces Joseph to listen to an angel and also say “yes” to living with mystery.  In fact Joseph probably knew he would potentially face scorn or ridicule as Mary’s pregnancy became known as not his.  But Joseph’s faith as a follower and son of Abraham carried him beyond the need for a “good” earthly reputation.

Can we hear and do we listen when we are commanded to take on Jesus as we face each day?  Or do we “divorce” Him quietly as Joseph planned to do with Mary.  Is reputation, career, wealth, fear, arrogance or some other “law” prompting us rather than our faith? 

Action

Spend some time picturing Joseph, a simple carpenter, who turned his life over when he took Mary and her Son into his home with love.  Then listen to Jesus with the love of Joseph.  Feel Him near and experience His healing.