The Unsung Hero of the Nativity: St. Joseph

 

Always live right in whichever condition or whatever you do. St Joseph was a carpenter but now a Saint 

THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ST. JOSEPH

St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus, is one of the most revered figures in Christianity. His life, though not extensively documented in the Bible, has been the subject of much devotion, speculation, and artistic expression throughout history.

Early Life and Marriage

According to tradition, St. Joseph was born in Bethlehem, in the province of Judea, around 30 BCE. He was a descendant of King David and belonged to the tribe of Judah. Joseph was a carpenter by trade, and his family likely lived a modest life.

At some point, Joseph married Mary, who was also from a devout Jewish family. The Bible describes Mary as a virgin when the angel Gabriel announced that she would bear a son, Jesus (Luke 1:26-38).

The Nativity Story

When Mary became pregnant, Joseph was faced with a difficult decision. According to Jewish law, a betrothed woman who became pregnant outside of marriage could be stoned to death. However, Joseph, being a just and compassionate man, decided to divorce Mary quietly, rather than exposing her to public shame (Matthew 1:19).

An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, revealing that Mary's pregnancy was a miraculous work of God, and that the child was to be named Jesus, "for he will save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:20-21). Joseph obeyed the angel's instructions and took Mary as his wife.

The Flight to Egypt

After Jesus' birth, Joseph and Mary were forced to flee to Egypt to escape King Herod's persecution (Matthew 2:13-15). This journey, known as the Flight to Egypt, was a perilous one, and Joseph protected his family from harm.

Life in Nazareth

The Holy Family eventually returned to Nazareth, where Joseph continued to work as a carpenter. He provided for his family's needs and taught Jesus the skills of his trade.

Death and Legacy

The Bible does not provide details about Joseph's death, but tradition suggests that he died before Jesus' public ministry began. Joseph's legacy, however, has endured for centuries.

St. Joseph is revered as a model of faith, obedience, and paternal love. He is often depicted in art as a humble, gentle, and wise figure, surrounded by his family.

Patronage and Feast Day

St. Joseph is the patron saint of many countries, including Canada, Mexico, and Italy. He is also the patron of families, fathers, and workers.

His feast day is celebrated on March 19, which is also Father's Day in many countries.

Symbolism and Iconography

St. Joseph is often depicted with symbols that reflect his life and virtues. Some common symbols associated with him include:

- The lily, which represents purity and innocence

- The carpenter's square, which symbolizes his trade and diligence

- The staff, which represents his role as a protector and guide

- The Holy Family, which emphasizes his importance as a father and husband

Prayers and Devotions

Many prayers and devotions have been composed in honor of St. Joseph. One of the most popular prayers is the "Prayer to St. Joseph," which asks for his intercession and protection.

The Unsung Hero of the Nativity: St. Joseph

As we reflect on the Nativity story, our minds often wander to the iconic figures of Mary and Jesus. However, there is another pivotal character who played a crucial role in the life of our Lord: St. Joseph.

St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus, is often overlooked in the midst of the Christmas narrative. Yet, his selfless devotion, unwavering faith, and quiet strength make him an exemplary model of Christian virtue.

A Just and Compassionate Man

The Bible describes St. Joseph as a "just man" (Matthew 1:19), indicating his commitment to living a righteous and moral life. When he discovered that Mary was pregnant, he could have chosen to publicly shame her, but instead, he decided to divorce her quietly, demonstrating his compassion and respect for her dignity.

A Man of Faith and Obedience

St. Joseph's faith and obedience to God's will are exemplary. When an angel appeared to him in a dream, instructing him to take Mary as his wife and to name the child Jesus, he did not hesitate. He trusted in God's plan and obeyed without question, even when it meant sacrificing his own comfort and convenience.

A Foster Father and Protector

St. Joseph's role as a foster father and protector of Jesus is a remarkable aspect of his story. He provided for the Holy Family's needs, protected them from harm, and taught Jesus the skills of his trade. His paternal love and care for Jesus demonstrate the importance of fatherhood and the value of family in our lives.

What to learn from St Joseph 

Whenever we take a closer look at the person of Joseph, the husband of Mary, we soon realize that we tend to take St. Joseph for granted not because we like to ignore him but because we naturally assume Jesus being God deserves all the attention.

There are lot of lessons to learn from this great man, Joseph, some of which we would now try to itemize:

1. St. Joseph was a just man.

The Bible refers to Joseph as a just man. This means he was a man of integrity. He was well respected in the community. He had a good name. He was a man of justice. He was not a wayward person and he believed in doing what is right at all times. Can it be said about me that I am a just person? Do I practice selective integrity?

2. St. Joseph did not take joy in seeing the Pain of others.

St. Joseph was unwilling to put Mary to shame despite learning of her pregnancy before they came to be together as husband and wife. When I happen to suspect others of doing wrong, what is my immediate reaction? Do I keep things to myself or begin to gossip and announce to others?

3. St. Joseph was Obedient to God at his own expense.

We are told that when Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the Angel of the Lord had commanded him. He agreed to play the role of a foster father to the Son of God. This meant that he agreed to live as a celibate for the rest of his life for the sake of Jesus Christ. His own form of celibacy would even be more demanding given that unlike other celibates, he would have to live in the same house with a woman not related to him. Can I make sacrifice for God? Am I only interested in what I can get from God rather than what I should give to God? Am I faithful to the demands of my calling in life? Do I keep my vows and promises to God?

4. St. Joseph was a Man of Faith.

It takes great faith to agree to do what Joseph did for Jesus and Mary. Do you notice that God only spoke to him through dreams? Unlike the case of Mary and Zechariah who had an Angel appear to them in broad day, Joseph had to depend on his dreams.

It takes great faith to believe that what we see in our dreams is not simply a figment of our imagination. It takes Faith to believe that a young woman would actually conceive without knowing a man. Do I put a limit in my mind to what God can do? Do I really believe that with God, all things are possible? Am I willing to act based on what God reveals to me daily through my study of the scriptures?

Conclusion

St. Joseph's life is a testament to the power of humility, faith, and selfless love. As we reflect on his example, let us strive to emulate his virtues and to follow his example of quiet devotion and service to others.

St. Joseph's life and legacy serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, family, and hard work. His selfless devotion to Mary and Jesus, as well as his role as a protector and provider, make him a beloved figure in Christian tradition. As we reflect on his life, we are inspired to emulate his virtues and to seek his intercession in our own lives.

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