During the month of May, the Church traditionally holds a special place in her heart for devotion to the Mother of God. Perhaps by coincidence, or by some other means, this first day of the month of May is also designated as the Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker.
There is much to be learned from these two figures who lived simple but devoted lives. The references in scripture that speak of Joseph and Mary tell us that they were both very deep persons, who pondered the realities that unfolded in their lives and always sought to live as upright and faith-filled persons. Perhaps our world would do well to pay attention to the lessons these two have to teach: lessons about openness of heart, willingness to cooperate with the Divine Plan, trust in the guidance of one who is much greater, wiser and knowledgable than any of us can ever hope to be.
Today, I was invited to celebrate a mass with a few high school students at one of the neighbouring schools. I spoke to them about the fact that there are sometimes profound realities unfolding right before our eyes, but we are blinded to the true meaning of events or occasions until we truly take the time to appreciate the seemingly hidden reality that we find ourselves in.
These words which are so fitting as we consider the example of the Holy Family were perhaps greeted by understanding hearts and minds which will ponder the reality that they contain, but I couldn't help wondering whether the souls before me truly grasp the miracle of Jesus who comes to live among us, making himself known to us in the word of life that is spoken and in the simple gifts of bread and wine which are transformed into the very food of eternal life.
Like Joseph and Mary, perhaps these students who were specially invited guests at the banquet of the Lord will come to understand the profound gift that they have been offered. Perhaps we all will someday come to appreciate the value of Christ's sacrifice, lived out in the celebration of the sacraments.
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