Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin
Mary
(2 Samuel 7:4-5a.12-14a.16; Romans 4:13.16-18.22; Matthew
1:16.18-21.24a)
One innovation of Pope Francis has been to include St.
Joseph in the very often used Second and Third Eucharistic Prayers. For awhile waning in the popular eye,
Joseph’s role in the economy of salvation has been reemphasized. After all, he not only gave Jesus royal
lineage; he most likely taught his divine son godly justice.
In today’s gospel Joseph manifests how justice is a virtue
that requires more than a literal enactment of law but also love and
prudence. The Law allows Joseph to
publicly expose Mary as having sexual relations outside marriage. Of course, that is not true, but her pregnancy indicates
it. However, Joseph, being truly just, cares
about Mary and adeptly decides to divorce her in secret. In the end he does not have to do it, but his
plan reveals a man of good character.
Raising Jesus as his own son, he likely passes on to him godly virtues.
Although contemporary artists often picture Joseph touching
Mary, in classical art there is almost always a separation between the two. Joseph was a chaste man who would not let proximity
lapse into sexual intimacy. It is one
more virtue that we can learn from this wise and holy man.
