Looking to our father's protection and example

Today’s readings: 2 Samuel 7:4-5,12-14,16; Romans 4:13,16-18,22; Matthew 1:16,18-21,24

Today is the Solemnity of St. Joseph, husband of Mary.  Today I am thoughtful of 3 people:

St. Joseph (obviously), my dad and Pope Francis.

St. Joseph was a humble and strong example to Jesus and the rest of us.  His concern for the protection of Mary began even before their marriage.  He wanted to make sure that she was not looked down upon for being pregnant before wedlock.  But, once he receives word from God to continue with the marriage and be the father of Jesus, Joseph responded with obedience to the will of God.  All the stories of Joseph give us a glimpse into the strength and protection of a father for his family.  He kept them away from the political persecution, he kept a protective eye on them during any struggles, and showed Jesus his trade.  In other words, he taught, listened, protected, lead, and gave direction to his family…and he did these well because he allowed God to be an example and followed the will of God at all turns.

My dad has been a strength for my family.  He has been an amazing example of love and service.  I am reminded today of all of the things my dad has done for us.  There is no way I would be able to recount all of the experiences of love.  Whenever my dad hears of something that one of us needs, he immediately gets on the task of providing it for us.  He has a fun sense of humor and tries to pass that light heartedness to us.  He has always been a beacon of protection whenever we are in danger.  And he, and my mom, show us (as the leaders of our family) that humility, gentleness, and laughter are key ingredients to being a true leader.

Pope Francis has been Pope for less than a week, and he has already given us an example of a father’s protection and leadership.  He has given us great challenges and leadership, and shows that care for the entire family of God has to include (in a very purposefully manner) those who are in the greatest need.  I am blown away by his humility and ability to step into this huge position with certainty and strength.  In a world of need and darkness, he has been asked by God to be a great light.  But, his leadership will be challenged and it is important for us to help him in his duty.  We must pray for him, and help in caring for our brothers and sisters.  He is to be a visible sign of God’s fatherly care and love for us, but he will need our help to ensure that the Christian family continues on the course of salvation.

All three of these people are great examples to me of what strength is.  Strength is shown in our humility, gentleness, and care for those in need.  The second reading today gives us a glimpse as to how we can proceed with this leadership.  St. Paul says that God’s promises come to us through the righteousness of faith.  We must have faith not only in God, but in his promises and covenant.  We must “believe, hoping against hope”.  In our crazy world there are so many persecutions and temptations that want to darken the truth and light of Christ.  Abraham, the father of many nations, lived his life in hope!  He believed the word of God, even when it seemed to make no sense.  The same is true for Joseph and the need to take Mary and Jesus into his home…and with strength and hope about the future, Joseph followed the will of God.

As Christians we must continue in their footsteps.  We must have strength!  We must have compassion! We must protect!  We must strive in all things to follow the will of our true and everlasting father!

As we have this last week of Lent before Holy Week, let us challenge ourselves to be light.  We must use the discipline we have developed thus far in life and especially what we have learned this Lent.  We must not forget the promptings of heart.  And we must remember that  loving service is the key to leadership.