Be open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit

March 19, Saturday 2nd Week of Lent
St. Joseph, Husband of Mary
Daily Readings:
2 Samuel 7:4-5a, 12-14a,16, Romans 4:13, 16-18,22 & Matthew 1:16,18-21, 24a

Joseph, the husband of Mary, is an icon of holiness, righteousness, and fidelity. The righteous character of Joseph is clearly expressed in the Gospel, "Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly" (Mathew 1:19). He fulfilled the will of God according to the directions given by the angel. He accepted Mary and took care of Mary and Jesus.

Joseph trusted God and the message of the angel. Even though he was afraid, he was open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in his life. God’s ways are revealed to Joseph, the righteous man. Even in perplexity, God will guide us on the right path if we are honest.

Nothing is impossible for God, and God's ways are incomprehensible. In purity of heart and mind, we receive the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Walking in the footsteps of Jesus and the values of the Gospel will undoubtedly help us be righteous and grow in purity of heart and mind. By doing the will of God, we can become righteous. Let us be faithful to God and take care of our family by following the example of Joseph.

Kindly pray a prayer to St. Joseph by Pope Francis. 

Glorious Patriarch Saint Joseph,
whose power makes the impossible possible,
come to my aid in these times of anguish and difficulty.
Take under your protection the serious and troubling situations
that I commend to you, that they may have a happy outcome.
My beloved father, all my trust is in you.
Let it not be said that I invoked you in vain,
and since you can do everything with Jesus and Mary,
show me that your goodness is as great as your power. Amen.