Daily Gospel reflections: The model of St. Joseph’s faith
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary
For this reason, it depends on faith, so that it may be a gift. (Romans 4:16)
There is power and truth in the words of this short phrase. These words can serve as a prayer in moments when we want to renew the gift of our commitment to God. Surely Joseph must have felt the sentiments of this short prayer after his dream. When he decided to accept Mary and receive Jesus into his life, he had no clear understanding of these strange happenings. Everything depended on faith.
When he was growing in relationship with the child Jesus, perhaps Joseph sensed that everything was gift and grace. Our lives are full of moments when faith seems to be the only staff we have to lean on. Unable to see the gift enfolded in our faith, we depend on the promises of God. Joseph can be our model and friends at times like this. He experienced such moments to the full.
O God, from the tattered scraps of my faith you uncover hidden gifts. Increase my faith.
— Sr. Macrina Wiederkehr, OSB
2 Samuel 7:4-5A, 12-14A, 16
Psalm 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29
Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22
Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24A or Luke 2:41-51A
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