Page 139 - Reflections on St. Joseph

St. Joseph is the model of consecration and of mission, a perfect synthesis of contemplation
and action. In our “behold” we find the strength of his “behold” which teaches us to sanctify
all of our earthly realities (family, work, institutions). For Joseph, every action is important
and becomes part of our story of salvation. There is no room for “half measures”. The
totality of this consecration, this offering, this “oblation”, allows us to be one with the
holiness of Joseph, fully enjoying his protection, as well as follow his example.

B. You mark out for us the way

Joseph is the teacher because he shows us the way to follow. The verb, in Italian (segnare),
refers to those who act as guides in the mountain when they “mark” or show the paths they
go upon, indicating the type of path, the difficulties to be met with, where the resting places
are...all so that the rest of the party may walk in security, even not knowing the way.

C. You assist our every step

How can we not see in this expression the “paternal” attitude of Joseph in the presence of the
young Jesus? It is the responsibility of one who assists, that while evoking confidence when
attempting to take those first steps, he is watchful that the child does not stumble and if he
falls, is ready to raise him up.

D. You lead us where Divine Providence wants us to arrive

Joseph has become an expert in Providence. He who was foremost in struggling in the dark,
has also learned to recognize the voice, even the whispers, the inspirations and above all has
learned to trust in it. He has learned to review his own ideas and plans by it and link his own
discernment to it (“while he was thinking of these things...”), surrendering himself to the
supreme Will of God.

E. Whether the way be long or short

Joseph helps us to different conception of the “time it will take”, because in his life, there is
a continuous “recalculating of of the way”. God is never predictable and just when you seem
to have nailed Him down, He is ready to surprise you and “break up your plans”.

F. Rough or Smooth

The experience of the life of the Founder was already such as to allow him to view the
spiritual journey as a mixture of situations, some beautiful others difficult, level ways and
rough ways. Further, the very life of the Patron he chose, St. Joseph, was a joining of “joys
and sorrows”. This is why Marello looks: “to our good father Joseph, who is the Patriarch of
people in trouble, and the secret Comforter of our weaknesses - (he who himself was so often in
trouble)”(Letter 86)

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Reflections on st. joseph