First Reading: Jeremiah 23:5-8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 72
Gospel: Matthew 1:18-25
For most people, when we hear the word justice, we may begin to think of a police or detective show, or we may begin to think about our favorite super hero bringing justice to the streets. We tend to think about justice in terms of crime and criminals. How often do we think of the virtue of justice that we are all called to?
In the catechism the virtue of justice is described as: "Justice is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor. Justice toward God is called the virtue of religion. Justice towards men disposes one to respect the rights of each and to establish in human relationships the harmony that promotes equity with regard to persons and to the common good. The just man, often mentioned in the Sacred Scriptures, is distinguished by habitual right thinking and the uprightness of his conduct toward his neighbor. (Catechism 1807)"
In today's gospel we read about a truly just man who never argued or second guessed God when called upon. Joseph was truly a just man, and even though we are not told anything about what Joseph said during his life on earth, his actions speak volumes to his faith and his character. Today, let us ask for Saint Joseph's intercessions in striving to become men and women of justice.
Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day. We thank you and give you praise for all that we have been given by you. Lord, we thank you for the example of your servant Joseph, and we pray for the strength to be men and women of justice in this life. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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