Dear Parishioners of St. James:
Praised be Jesus Christ!
We continue our reflections on St. Joseph borrowing from the excellent book, Consecration to St. Joseph (Marian Fathers of the Immaculate, 2020). The fact that he was called a “just man” in the Scriptures signifies his excellent character before God and men (Mt. 1:19).
St. Joseph was filled with a sense of his own unworthiness and, at the same time, a deep reverence for God. He feared offending Our Lord and Our Lady so much that he was more than willing to separate himself from the great mysteries surrounding him (Mt. 1:20). He humbly regarded others as greater than himself. He refrained from suspecting others of wrongdoing choosing rather to withhold his own judgment in favor of God’s.
St. Joseph joined great humility with great obedience. He promptly obeyed the voice of the Lord when the angel directed him to take Mary into his home. The Scriptures say he, “Did as the angel of the Lord commanded” (Mt. 1:24). St. Joseph teaches us to reserve judgment (even for a long time!) in situations which we cannot comprehend. The Lord will reveal His will for us in His time according to His Word. We have to remain faithful in the face of uncertainty knowing the Lord is fulfilling His will in our trials.
May the good St. Joseph be our example and guide in trusting God. If we are just and righteous in God’s sight He will use us to bring greater glory to Jesus and Mary and, thereby, bring salvation to those who seek it.
God bless you,
Fr. Geary
Saint James Catholic Church 