Joseph, Foster Father of Jesus

by Deacon Tom Fox

In the Gospel of Luke, we read these words of the child Jesus to his parents as he was found teaching in the Temple in Jerusalem. "Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's House? But they did not understand what he said to them."

Even as Mary called Joseph Jesus' father, so would have Jesus called Joseph his father. But now that He has come of age, he speaks of God as His Father and His wisdom surprises the religious teachers. Even though Mary and Joseph know Jesus is the Messiah, they don't understand when for the first time He reminds them of His origin. They have been accustomed to Jesus being their son. But now He reminds them of His Heavenly mission.

We can become accustomed to Jesus being our friend, our brother, our food, but do we accept Jesus' call to take up our cross and follow Him ? How do we respond when He reminds us He is our Lord?

Jesus, Lord and Master, help my unbelief!
St. Joseph, pray for me to respond to the Lord's call to follow Him.