Saint Joseph Novena: Day Six

Saint Joseph is the patron saint against doubt.

Reflection:

The Annunciation of the Lord is a solemnity in the Church, recalling the moment in Luke’s Gospel when God sent the Angel Gabriel to tell Mary that she would become the mother of Jesus.

In Matthew’s Gospel, God sent the angel to Joseph. The angel said to him, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

When God’s messenger visited Joseph, he had already decided not to have Mary stoned for infidelity. Rather, he was showing great compassion and mercy in obtaining a discreet divorce. The Angel of the Lord encouraged Joseph to “take Mary into [his] home,” and to raise Jesus as his foster son.

Saint Joseph faced many doubts. He received God’s own assurance through the message of the angel. May Joseph intercede for us when we have doubts.

 

Prayer:

O Saint Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires.

O Saint Joseph, assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your Divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord; so that having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of Fathers.

O Saint Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me, and ask Him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath. Amen.

O Saint Joseph, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions. O Saint Joseph, pray for me. (Mention your intention.)

Amen.