St. Joseph and the Christ Child - Guido Reni
WISDOM OF THE AUGUSTINIAN TRADITION
Year of “
D
Saint Joseph
o not hesitate to gaze also on that most holy man, Joseph, as he trembles in the presence of the miraculous event, standing perplexed and overawed at so great and so wonderful a happening. He is astounded, but at the same time he rejoices; he is filled with amazement, but with happiness as well; his spirit is afire within him and he dare not lift his gaze to the sublime majesty of the scene. How exceedingly happy you are, Joseph! How true you now perceive that word to be which was spoken to you by the angel: What is born of her is of the Holy Spirit (Mt 1:20)! Now indeed you have seen this miraculous, sacred birth: you have seen it, and you are witness to all that has happened. Look how great is the glory God has willed to confer on you and consider how you can best serve this child for whom the angels are singing nuptial songs.” – St. Thomas of Villanova O.S.A., Christmas Sermon 2,6
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