The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, March 19, 2005
Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent
The Solemnity of St. Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Samuel 7:4-5,12-14,16
Psalm 89:2-5,27,29
Romans 4:13,16-18,22
Matthew 1:16,18-21,24

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In our Scripture readings of the past week, we've been preoccupied with the obstinacy of the Jews to accept wholeheartedly the person and the truth of Jesus. Their blindness distresses us, especially when we realize the disastrous effects it will have, both in the violation of Jesus' person, and the eventual destruction of the Temple.

As we take time out today to celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, we consider Nathan's prophecy concerning the building of the Temple by David's son, Solomon. As this building was erected by an illustrious son of David, so too will the new spiritual Temple and the new Covenant be established in the greatest Son of David: the Christ.

And Joseph is the link, the "just man" whose rock-like faith and trust in God led him to humbly accept his role as foster-father of Jesus. He is himself that "just man" whose role is critical to God's plan, less important than Mary's, but still a role that exalts him to greatness down through the ages.

In what ways can we attempt to imitate this strong, quiet saint? In his faith and his humility, he overcame any natural tendency to anger, rash reaction, or hatred for this woman who had apparently abused his plans for their life. His faith and humility saved him, and made possible a secure environment for Jesus to flourish and grow in His human nature. This humble faith, linked with his unshakable love for Mary and the Child, sets for us an example for us to follow in our own devotion to Jesus and Mary.

As temples of Jesus, may we provide an atmosphere of strong, yet tender love, ardent devotion, and readiness to sacrifice our time, our own convenience, and our own agenda for the will of Jesus and Mary in our choices and decisions in life.

- Msgr. Paul E. Whitmore
(smartins at twcny dot rr dot com)

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