GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 20TH MARCH 2017
SOLEMNITY OF ST. JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
FIRST READING: 2Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14,16
PSALM: Psalm 89:2-5, 27,29
SECOND READING: Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22
GOSPEL: Matthew 1:16, 18-21,24 (or Luke 2:41-51)
THEME: JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF MARY
There is no doubt that Joseph comes after Mary in the roll call of saints in the Church. On December 8, 1870, Pope Pius IX proclaimed Joseph the Patron Saint of the universal Church.
The true character of a person is seen in the face of crisis. For a moment, look at the character of Joseph in the face of an inexplicable pregnancy of Mary. Rather than blowing the issue out of proportion, he chose to spare Mary disgrace. Here, we see a man of honour.
Secondly, a dream in itself does not solve a problem. It takes faith to unlock the fruits of one’s dream. It was faith in God that enabled Joseph to see the hand of God in the dream that he had. He interpreted the events of his life with the eyes of faith and therefore, like Abraham, he gained righteousness through faith (cf. Second Reading).
In sum, Joseph stands out as a man of honour and faith who, though not the biological father of Jesus, became an instrument through which the prophecy of Nathan to David was fulfilled (cf. First Reading).
The character of Joseph should challenge us to consider living honourable lives. Disgracing others does not bring one honour. Rather, it is in honouring others that we become honourable ourselves.
Moreover, today’s celebration should deepen our faith journey with the Lord. Just as the faith of Joseph was tested, there are moments in life when we are unable to explain fully the things that happen to us. It is during such moments that reason ought to allow faith to shed some light on the path, trusting that all things work for good with those who love God.
May the inspiring life of Joseph move us from faith to faith, honour to honour and glory to glory. Amen.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, grant me a trustful heart. In your kindness, keep me always close to you and help me to see the daily events of life from your perspective. Amen
Andrews Obeng, svd
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)
“May the darkness of sin and the night of unbelief vanish before the light of the Word and the Spirit of grace. And may the heart of Jesus live in the hearts of all people” (St. Arnold Janssen).