A desire that many of us share is the wish that the Bible spoke more about St. Joseph. If only he had said a few words like the Blessed Virgin Mary, we would have more details to understand him better. But perhaps it is precisely through his silence that he becomes even more “cool” and mysterious!
HUSBANDS SEE THEMSELVES IN ST. JOSEPH
In Vietnamese culture, a father often does not speak much. Instead, he works hard, facing the storms of life. When he returns home, weary both physically and mentally, he remains calm and silent, bearing his burdens without complaining to his family. The image of the man, the husband—strong, composed, and few of words—is something we see often in many Vietnamese husbands. The mission of protecting and providing for the family always remains the priority, and they do it all for their loved ones, speaking little.
St. Joseph was the same. He is beloved for his choices in life to protect his family: resolute in action, silent in speech, and obedient in faith.
WIVES SEE IN ST. JOSEPH THE EXEMPLARY HUSBAND
In the relationship between husband and wife, trust, respect, and acceptance are vital. Every wife, upon leaving her parents’ home to join a new family, always needs the support, protection, trust, respect, and acceptance of her in-laws, especially her husband. Perhaps, a home ceases to be a home—a place of peace—when it is filled with insecurity and doubt. We all have shortcomings and make mistakes at times, but in a place where Unconditional Love and Forgiveness exist, it becomes an opportunity to share our weaknesses and hurts. A family is a place where love begins and is nurtured through the challenges, with mutual respect and acceptance each day.
The image of St. Joseph is that of the ideal husband—generous, righteous, respecful, forgiving, and safe—qualities that every wife hopes to see in her husband.
CHILDREN SEE A GENTLE, PROTECTIVE FATHER IN ST. JOSEPH
Did St. Joseph ever scold the Child Jesus with a rod during their quiet life in Nazareth? If Jesus misbehaved, would He have received a punishment? Although the Bible does not mention how St. Joseph responded after losing Jesus for three days in the temple, we do know that Jesus obeyed both of His parents as He grew up. Furthermore, Jesus did not use violence during His ministry. From these few details, we can infer that St. Joseph’s method of parenting was not through violence or harsh reprimands, but rather as a patient, gentle father setting an example through his own life.
Happy Feast of St. Joseph to all!
Let us give thanks to God for providing us with the example of a husband and father in St. Joseph. May we learn to reflect in silence, like St. Joseph, and follow his example to live more justly and gently in our lives.
With love,
Little-pencil
Little-pencil 