Solemnity of Saint Joseph

“Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.” -Matthew 1:16, 18, 21-24
 
Once, the Lord showed me a glimpse into Saint Joseph's life. Much of the story is still too raw and evokes too much emotion for me to write about. I will share what I can.
 
Many calamities fell upon Saint Joseph earlier in life, the likes of which would have left most men paralyzed in the ashes. Through it all, Joseph remained faithful to the Lord. He loved and honored God without hesitation, submitted willingly to His will, and continued on with life.
 
One day, Joseph saw Mary and understood all his trials and tribulations were part of God’s divine plan for his life, a gift used to build strength for his life’s purpose. When Joseph saw Mary, he knew she was the fulfillment of that purpose. He was to be her protector and, then later, her Child’s as well. Their marriage was a match made in heaven, but it would never be consummated in the traditional sense. Their love for each other was rooted in God and beyond the earthly realm. Joseph remained unaware that his unmoving faith and trust in God, after everything the enemy threw at him, made him the Terror of Demons.
 
My friends, each of us is given the opportunity, through faith, trust, and our surrender to God’s will, to be like Joseph and to become a terror of demons. 
 
Saint Joseph, pray for us.
 
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Jesus, I trust in you.