19/03/2022

Not much is told of Joseph in the Scriptures but what is told is of immeasureable  importance. Mary's "Yes" to the incarnation was first humanly accepted by Joseph who had to accept that a child was to be born of his betrothed, of which he was not the Father. He was not the father. He had to accept that for the rest of his life as he cared for Jesus the Son of God and Son of Mary. Joseph must have been inspired by the Holy Spirit for even shortly after the Nativity he had to escape with  Mary and the Child out of Jerusalem having heard the prophecy of Simeon

He returned with his family to Nazareth and just as we have no information about Jesus the Child until he was about 12, nothing else other than having Jesus known as his son is known about him.

Our Faith's founding story can esily be debunked and scoffed at. There is no need of a higher education to be able to mock. God knows that millions have. The simplicity of the Gospels needs a "yes" or a "no". Once we have accepted the "Incarnation"we, as did Joseph, have to be in awe that God, Father Son and Holy Spirit are present at the table of a carpenter in Galilee. The anonymity of Joseph continues thoughout his life until death when he could recall Simeon's;

                    Now, Master, you let your servant go in peace. You have fulfilled your promise.
                 My own eyes have seen your salvation,
                 which you have prepared in the sight of all peoples.
                 A light to bring the Gentiles from darkness; the glory of your people Israel.

Dear Lord you know all your people in the same way you were known by Joseph. You are our Father, hear our humble petitions and let your grace build up your  bequest to us, the Church  which is crumbling for want of sincere human guidance in this world. May Mary Joseph and Jesus support those, known to you, who are facing death that they may in sincere repentance become aware of Father Son and Holy Spirit.