A solemnity is a day of the highest importance; yet there is little reference to the hero of the day in the scriptures! However, the little we hear about this great man; St. Joseph, is enough to know how rich in virtue he was and what a huge influence he could have on our lives. Joseph was righteous and obedient. He was so intent on doing what is right and above all he never hesitated to take God at his word. We see his actions written simply and plainly: “Joseph…did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him.” (Mt 1:24); no questions asked, no hesitation but simple obedience. Silence is another characteristic of St. Joseph that we can draw strength from. As Pope Benedict XVI highlights, “St Joseph’s silence does not express an inner emptiness but, on the contrary, the fullness of the faith he bears in his heart, and which guides his every thought and action.” It is this silence of his heart that allowed him to hear God clearly, trust in God wholeheartedly and act promptly. We are called to follow in his footsteps.

Prayer: Abba Father, may I obey you in humility. Amen.