💖 HOMILY - MARCH 19 💖

SOLEMNITY OF ST. JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

First Reading - 2 Samuel 7:4-5,12-14,16

Second Reading - Romans 4:13,16-18,22

Gospel - Matthew 1:16,18-21,24 

God’s promises never fail. Though at times His plan may seem hidden or delayed, He is always faithful. The readings today invite us to trust in God’s promises, just as Abraham and St. Joseph did, and to witness His plans unfolding in our lives.  

In the first reading, we hear God’s promise to King David through the prophet Nathan. David wanted to build a temple for the Lord, but God had a greater plan. Instead of David building a house for God, God promised to build a lasting dynasty for David—one that would culminate in the coming of the Messiah. This prophecy, given centuries before, found its fulfillment in Jesus, who was legally inducted into David’s lineage through Joseph. This reminds us that no matter how long it takes, God’s promises will always come to pass.  

The second reading presents Abraham as a model of faith. God promised him descendants as numerous as the stars, yet he and Sarah were childless in old age. From a human perspective, God’s promise seemed impossible, but Abraham placed his hope in God. His faith, tested over time, was counted as righteousness. His trust in God’s word allowed him to witness the fulfillment of divine promises. This challenges us: Do we trust in God’s plan even when it seems unlikely? Do we remain steadfast in faith even in moments of doubt?  

The Gospel reveals the faith of another great man—St. Joseph. Faced with the unexpected news of Mary’s pregnancy, Joseph found himself in a dilemma. He could have responded in fear, doubt, or even rejection, but he chose faith. The angel’s message reassured him that this was God’s plan, and Joseph embraced his role in salvation history. By accepting Mary and naming Jesus, he legally adopted Him, thus fulfilling God’s promise of a Messiah from David’s lineage. Joseph’s silent but unwavering obedience shows us the power of trusting in God even when His plan is unclear.  

Dear friends, today’s feast reminds us that Joseph played a vital role in God’s plan of salvation. Through him, Jesus entered the house of David, fulfilling ancient prophecies. This teaches us that no matter how small or hidden our role may seem, God’s plan for our lives is significant. We may not always understand His ways, but like Abraham and Joseph, we are called to trust, to wait, and to believe.  

St. Joseph is described as a just man (Matthew 1:19). In biblical terms, a just person is one who faithfully fulfills their duties to God and others. Like Joseph, we are called to be righteous—not just in words but in action. This means being faithful in our responsibilities, living with integrity, and placing our trust in God’s will even when we do not fully understand it.  

Let us pray for the grace to grow in faith like Abraham and Joseph. May we trust in God’s promises and embrace His plan with confidence. And may we, like St. Joseph, live justly, humbly, and faithfully in God’s presence.