Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Today's Mass Readings

Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of St. Joseph, the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This rank of “solemnity” is the highest celebration of the Church. So why is Joseph so important? Our readings for the day provide some explanation.

In the first reading from 2 Samuel, we hear God’s promise to David of an everlasting kingdom. The psalm complements this message with the response “The Son of David will live forever” (Ps. 89:37). St. Joseph, who we celebrate today, is said in the gospel passage to be the son of David. But of course, the “Son of David” who will live forever and whose kingdom never ends is Jesus—who was known as the son of Joseph.

Like all saints, Joseph is a saint because of his relationship with Jesus. But unlike most saints, that relationship was an intimately familiar one. How humbling for Joseph, to be the husband of the Mary, the mother of God! How humbling to raise as a son the one who would save all mankind from sin! Joseph’s family relationships were undoubtedly more complicated than that of the average husband and dad. And yet, we see in Joseph the model of faith. He believed and acted on the message of an angel. He assumed responsibility for the boy that he knew to be the Messiah. In other words, Joseph responded to God’s call, even though it was often difficult.

During this Lenten season, we have the opportunity to take penances upon ourselves, both as a Church and as individuals. We challenge ourselves to respond to God’s call, even when it is difficult. The readings for today are meant to reflect St. Joseph, but in reflecting on them we are pointed to Jesus and Joseph’s own dedication and sacrifice for Jesus. In other words, our meditation on St. Joseph quite naturally leads us to Jesus, the son he raised as his own.

Today, let us ask St. Joseph to intercede for us during this Lent. Let him pray for us that we might, like him, be willing to do everything we can for Jesus. And in so doing, let us open ourselves up for Jesus to do everything for us, in his life, death, and resurrection from the dead. It is faith in Jesus that permeated Joseph’s life. May it be the same for us.

- Maria Morrow