Pope Francis has asked that we dedicate this year to St. Joseph. During this long pandemic, we have had all the more reason (and need) to seek St. Joseph’s help. The Holy Father encourages us to honor Joseph, especially for the way he inspires us to make the best of our God-given talents – just as he did.
We learn from the Scriptures that St. Joseph was a carpenter or perhaps a skilled worker with stone, wood, and clay. He would likely be an engineer if he were among us today! St. Joseph leads us to appreciate our daily work, our daily efforts, and our appreciation for the good things we enjoy. His reputation in the Scriptures tells us he was “righteous,” an honor reserved for those who did God’s will through observing the precepts, statutes, and commandments of the Lord.
As was true for St. Joseph, we are called to share our talents with others and know the dignity and satisfaction that God give us through our efforts. God gives us patience while He open doors and He gives us wisdom to see His will. God keeps our families in His care and provides for our needs. May we never let stress diminish our love for each other, nor our love for our work.
Let us pray. “Good Saint Joseph, patron saint of workers, when God wanted a family for His Son, He looked among all the laborers, and chose you (along with Mary), demonstrating His esteem for human work. You put your own heart into your work, and shared your workshop with Jesus. Your work, like that of others, found new meaning in the presence of God. Sustain us in the hope of finding work when we are confronted with the hard road of unemployment. Counsel business leaders to create an equitable division of labor that is respectful of individuals and promotes our growth and happiness. Help us to perform our work joyfully, conscientiously, fairly, and honestly. Prepare our hearts to recognize your Son in those with whom we work. St. Joseph, pray for us. Amen.”
