By KRISTINE SCHROEDER
LESSONS LEARNED
“Simon of Cyrene was not central to the meaning of Jesus’ passion and death. Yet this unplanned for, conscripted, humble service became the most important thing he ever did” (R. Rolheiser, S.J.).
That quote gives me pause. Rolheiser then explains that Simon’s service, whether forced or voluntary, became the signature piece of his entire life, the reason that we still speak of him 2,000 years later while others whose lives were deemed important in their time are long forgotten. It also reminds me of St. Joseph and the fact that Pope Francis declared Dec. 8, 2020, to Dec. 8, 2021, the Year of St. Joseph.
His humble obedience to God’s call changed the course of all history. Did this quiet, diligent carpenter truly understand the impact of saying yes to God’s plan? Raising Jesus, both human and divine by the very nature of His birth, must have presented a daunting challenge.
Yet, Joseph accepted the angel Gabriel’s explanation of Mary’s pregnancy and continued with his earthly life while always being open to God’s direction. In doing so he became God’s choice to be the earthly father of the Son of God! That single fact alone elevates him to a height greater than any other saint who walked this earth, except Mary.
Marian Father Donald H. Calloway, in his book “Consecration of St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father,” says, “The silence of St. Joseph proves his greatness and poverty of spirit.” Joseph embodies the virtue of humility described by Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister as “the total continuing surrender to God’s power in [our lives] and in the lives of those around [us].” Joseph is the perfect example of both a father, a spouse, and a saint.
Not seeking worldly goods or accolades, Joseph instead trusted Providence while providing food, shelter and safety for the Holy Family. Told to flee to Egypt, a hostile country, he did as he was instructed. When the family was allowed to return to Nazareth, Joseph continued his trade as a carpenter. He instructed Jesus in worldly skills and in the Jewish faith, making difficult yearly treks to Jerusalem to observe the major Jewish holidays.
Why did Pope Francis declare this the Year of St. Joseph? Father Calloway presents many reasons in his book. As the Catholic Church continues to come under attack for its beliefs concerning family, marriage and the sanctity of life, we are reminded that St. Joseph is the Patron of the Universal Church as declared by Pope Pius IX in 1870. St. Joseph, as the head of the Holy Family, is also the Pillar of Families. Among his many other titles, he is significantly called the Terror of Demons.
In the Old Testament, Joseph of Egypt saved the people from a famine by giving them the grain they needed for bread to sustain life. St. Joseph, we are reminded, went to Egypt at God’s command, to save Jesus, the true Bread of Life. Joseph protected Mary and Jesus as he will us if we pray for his protection. As Calloway notes, the lily Joseph holds in his hand is a symbol of purity, a mighty spiritual weapon against the evil forces of Satan.
During the year of St. Joseph, it is important to recognize the strength of this silent saint. By choosing to answer Yes to God’s call, Joseph became the “gateway to Mary and Jesus.” Joseph is also a reminder that our positive response to God’s invitations is imperative in the story of salvation.
His life was neither easy nor clear. Yet he accepted it as God’s will. Are we willing to experience discomfort for God? The devil often convinces us otherwise.
Our excuses are limitless. However, to understand obedience to God’s will, we only need to reflect on what St. Joseph Pelczar said, “…look at how he [St. Joseph] rose at night at the angel’s voice, and giving no care to hunger, hardships, or cold, went to Egypt where he led a hard life until the next command of God.” We, too, must be willing to be uncomfortable if we are to share the Good News with this troubled world.