Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Today’s second reading has words in it that make me wonder. Saint Paul wrote to the Romans, “It was not through the law that the promises were made to Abraham and his descendants that he would inherit the world, but through the righteousness that comes from faith.” The Romans consisted of both Jews and Gentiles. Saint Paul wanted to move the emphasis away from the Jewish laws and towards the teachings of Jesus through their faith in Jesus. Jesus had told the disciples that he did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. There is so much more than the law in our faith in Jesus.

Jesus’ earthly father also pondered the meaning of righteousness when he discovered that his betrothed wife returned to Nazareth, obviously pregnant. He could have used Jewish law to protect his reputation or his possible anger at Mary for betrayal by having her stoned. But he must have prayed about it because of his love for Mary despite the appearances. God rewarded his “righteousness” by sending an angel to tell him what he should do.

I recently had an experience with the Spirit. We had shut down English as a Second Language because of COVID. I became personally involved in other ministries. However, our neighboring Episcopalian congregation became interested in starting up ESL education. Now, I find myself in the middle of that ministry again. When the Spirit moves us, God always finds a way for his will to be done.

Saint Peter Julian Eymard also had multiple instances when he thought his life was settled, but God intervened and revealed the next step in his journey. His love and devotion to the Eucharist brought him to God’s meaning of righteousness.

Let Us Pray:

Teach me to allow Jesus to penetrate and possess my whole being so completely that my life, too, may radiate his light and love to others. Amen. (Mother Teresa’s favorite prayer)