Today, we celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, Protector of the Virgin Mary and the Child Jesus. I realize that to some, this post is going to be overwhelmingly sappy, so if you would like to avoid said sappiness, please do not read on. :)
This Feast Day has given me pause to think about the role that St. Joseph played in the life of the Holy Family. St. Joseph was chosen by God to be the companion and helpmate to Our Lady as she shouldered the beautiful, but possibly taunting task, of protecting, loving and raising His Son. He was the one who went from inn to inn, looking for a suitable place for Our Lord to make His entrance into our world as a man. Can you imagine his disappointment when the only place he was able to find was a stable? Did he accept this as God's will, or did he struggle with feelings of inadequacy at his inability to offer a better place? Then, he lovingly escorts Our Lady to the Temple, to fulfill the Law in presenting Our Lord to the Father. What must have been his reaction to Simeon's harsh words towards Our Lady? We now understand what Simeon meant, when he told her about the sword that would pierce her Immaculate Heart, but did St. Joseph? Did he want to defend her, to spare her from this prophecy? On the Flight to Egypt, again he was tasked with making a home for the Holy Family in a foreign land. Or, consider the comfort he must have been to Our Lady, as she frantically looked for Our Lord when He was only twelve years old and lost in the city of Jerusalem. He must have been the one she turned to in her worry and fear. St. Joseph was that silent, but strong member of the Holy Family, whose mission it was to guard and protect the two most important people that mankind will ever know. He is an amazing example of a man who gave his life for his family through his work, protection, guardianship, love and companionship. This is why he is held as a model for all men.
Pondering his role, has made me think of the strong man in my own life and the way he so lovingly follows St. Joseph's example. These past few weeks, we as a family have been displaced and separated. My husband has spent this time seeing countless homes, searching for a place that would meet our needs. His search was so often met with disappointment and frustration, but he did not give up (even though I would have a long time ago!) :) He has worked long hours trying to provide for our needs. Somehow, he has managed to make a two hour drive several times a week, simply to be here to put his children down to sleep. He wants them to know that Daddy is here and that they can feel comforted and protected in his presence. He comes so that he can comfort his wife and let her know that she is never alone. I am so blest to have married someone so wonderful! Thank you, Jacob for being the selfless, strong, giving, loving and devoted man that you are! I love you with my whole heart and I cannot wait to be together again!
HAPPY FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH!
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