19/03/2024
19th March 2024
Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary
1st Reading: 2 Samuel 7:4-5A, 12-14A, 16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29
2nd Reading: Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22
Verse Before the Gospel: Psalms 84:5
Gospel: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24A
Theme: Guardian of the Holy Family and Model of Faith
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
On this Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are invited to contemplate the role of Joseph in the unfolding of God's plan of salvation. As we reflect on the readings from 2 Samuel and the Gospel of Matthew, we see how Joseph, like King David of old, was chosen by God to be a faithful guardian and protector of His people.
In the first reading from 2 Samuel, we hear of God's covenant with David, promising to establish his kingdom forever and raise up a descendant who would reign over Israel. This promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah, who is born into the lineage of David.
In the Gospel passage from Matthew, we encounter Joseph, the husband of Mary, who is described as a righteous man. When Joseph learns of Mary's unexpected pregnancy, he is initially troubled and uncertain. However, in a dream, an angel of the Lord appears to him, reassuring him of the divine origin of Mary's child and instructing him to take her as his wife. Joseph's response to the angel's message exemplifies his deep faith and obedience to God's will. Despite the social stigma and personal challenges, he must have faced, Joseph willingly embraces his role as the earthly father of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy that the Savior would come from the line of David.
Just as God chose David to be the shepherd of His people Israel, He also chose Joseph to be the guardian and protector of the Holy Family. Joseph's fidelity, courage, and humility make him a model of faith for all believers, demonstrating the power of trust in God's providence and the importance of obediently following His call.
As we celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, let us draw inspiration from his example and entrust ourselves to his intercession. Like Joseph, may we be open to God's guidance in our lives, trusting in His promises and faithfully fulfilling the mission He has entrusted to us.
Let us pray for all fathers, husbands, and guardians, that they may imitate the virtues of St. Joseph in their own lives and be faithful stewards of their families and communities. May we, like Joseph, remain steadfast in our commitment to God's will, knowing that He is always with us, guiding us on the path of righteousness and leading us to eternal life.
Through the intercession of Saint Joseph, may we grow in faith, hope, and love, and may our lives be a testament to the power of God's grace at work within us.
Prayer: Saint Joseph, faithful guardian and patron of families, intercede for us before the throne of God. Grant us the grace to emulate your virtues of faith, obedience, and humility in our daily lives. Amen.
By Father Patrick Agbeko
(Catholic Archdiocese of Accra)
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