“When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him” (Mt 1 : 24). Discreet, Effective Service

Abstract

Saint Joseph was a righteous man. He respected the Law of Israel. The decision to divorce Mary after she was found with child was not an easy one, although he knew he was not the child’s father. Instructed by the angel of the Lord, he took her to his home, gave a name to her child as his legal guardian (Mt 1 : 18–25), took care of his wife and her child, organised their trip to Egypt (Mt 2 : 13–15), then their return to Palestine and life in Nazareth (Mt 2 : 19–23; cf. Lk 2 : 39–52). His active obedience to God is the fulfilment of all the things Saint James will later describe as faith shown by the works of the faithful (Jas 2 : 14–17. 20–26). Joseph is put among those who bear witness to the faith of the Old Testament. The Gospels give no account of his exact words, although he fulfilled everything that he had been commanded. Saint Joseph can be a patron of everyone who tries to fulfil God’s will in a discreet and effective manner, with perseverance produced by faith (cf. Jas 1 : 3f.). With his works and life he shows how to bridle your tongue (cf. Jas 1 : 26f.; 3 : 1–13) and take care of the ones that need it the most (cf. Jas 1 : 27; 3 : 13), discreetly fulfilling your duties.