"And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called the Christ."—St. Mat: i. 16.
Descendant of the kings of Judah, Spouse of the Mother of God, foster-father of Jesus, representative also of the Eternal Father, Joseph holds, next to Mary, the highest rank to which a mere creature can be exalted; and such a man is passed unnoticed. No trait is cited, no word uttered, that can win him a place in the annals of the world. He is named but in conjunction with Jesus and Mary, and that only so far as their interests require.
How vain all earthly glory! Much is said of those who desire but oblivion, and true merit remains ignored.
Let the world despise us, its contempt passes unheeded, and, far from feeling surprise, let us rejoice at being overlooked. The world has forgotten so many! We will repay oblivion by oblivion!
Watchword. — Heed neither the esteem nor the contempt of the world.
1. Saint Joseph's Place in Heaven.
An artist was commissioned by Pius IX. to paint a picture of the proclamation of the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception. When the sketch was submitted for approval, the sovereign pontiff, looking at it, exclaimed: "And Saint Joseph, where is he I" The artist pointed to a group lost in the clouds, replying : "That is the spot I reserve for him." "No," replied the Holy Father, pointing to a place at our Saviour's side; "there, and only there, must he be placed ; for surely that is his post in heaven."
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