Issue link: http://archden.uberflip.com/i/1366114
A nd Joseph continues to watch over the family of the Church, serving as guardian and protector of the Body of Christ — the reason he has been named the patron of the universal Church. It can be hard to comprehend how much we, as Christians, share in the life and prerogatives of Jesus. Joan of Arc said it best during her trial: "About Jesus Christ and the Church, I simply know they're just one thing, and we shouldn't complicate the matter" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, §795). In this close identity of the believer with Christ, he gives us everything he has, even his divine life: his Father becomes our Father, he gives us his own spirit and life — the Holy Spirit, we receive the fruits of his victory over death, and on the Cross he gave his mother to be our mother too (Jn 19:26-27). Likewise, as members of Jesus's own body, Joseph becomes our own protector and guardian, taking on a fatherly role in our growth as Christians. Through the Gospels, we see clearly how Joseph models the virtues, particularly obedience, courage, silence, and humility. Matthew's Gospel in particular gives us the story of Jesus's birth from Joseph's perspective. Despite his fears, Joseph immediately obeyed the voice of the angel who spoke to him in a dream: "When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him" (Mt 1:24). Joseph had to exercise radical trust in God's plan even when it didn't seem to make sense. When his sleep was interrupted again, he showed his courage in setting out for Egypt at a moment's notice, leaving everything behind, to protect his family. Joseph's ongoing readiness to do what- ever was expected of him can be seen in the angel's words, "remain there till I tell you" (Mt 2:13). Joseph was a perfect Dad — always available, even in the night, and ready to do whatever his family needed. He epitomized the strong and silent type. Despite his crucial role in salvation history, Joseph remained silent in the Gospels. His silence manifests his humility, as an acknowledgment that his life was not focused on himself. He served the Holy Family devotedly and quietly, modeling daily faithfulness through work and prayer. Although in the kingly line, he was not ambitious, remaining a poor builder focused more on his family than anything else. He taught Jesus and invited him into his work. He lived chastely with Our Lady, achieving the true goal of marriage – a deep spir- itual union ordered toward heaven. Joseph shows us that true happiness comes from giving of ourselves sacrificially for others. With Jesus and Mary, he had all he needed! 6 THE YEAR OF ST. JOSEPH | ARCHDIOCESE OF DENVER