Consider what St. Joseph must have known, when the prophesy spoke about Mary’s suffering? It was though he wasn’t there. He had to come to terms with the fact that he would likely already be dead when his Son, and his beloved wife would have to go through something utterly terrible alone. Being a saint, he would have sought to prepare their hearts, to infuse as much affection, support, and fierce protection for them as long as he lived.
Now imagine St. Joseph observing His Son’s passion from heaven. wounded but also proud of the inner strength of His Son to obey His Eternal Father.
This year may Fathers, both spiritual (priests/bishops) and familial (biological and adoptive) see their role as giving strength, love, and directing their children to carry their crosses with courage, recognizing that his work of preparation is all he can contribute, and the rest is in the hands of God and up to us to cooperate.
Now imagine the beautiful joy within St. Joseph’s heart when Christ was raised from the dead. To see his Son eternally safe, victorious, and having saved His own father, filled with awe.
St. Joseph, during this Easter Season, pray that men may freely take up our call to be like you, so as to direct others to carry their cross.
Photo: Matt Marzorati, Unsplash / PD-US
