Happy New Year -- Becoming like St.Joseph

One character we see in the Christian Scriptures who is very different from others is St. Joseph, the earthly guardian of Christ. In the male dominated world of the first Century, in the midst of a fiercely Patriarchal Jewish society -- we are shown the image of this humble person who, by his choice to invite her into his world, allows his wife and her child to take center stage, relegating himself to the background, even while fulfilling all responsibilities as head of the household. He took some very important decisions in the life of Christ and his role was crucial in the Incarnation story. He would have immensely influenced the earthly life of Christ, yet we see not a single word spoken by Joseph in Scripture. He was righteous and despite loving the Law wanted to shield St. Mary from coming to harm due to the Law.

In the world of today -- still largely male dominated, and still generally selfish, can we (men) like St. Joseph forego our ego to allow the women folk and the other persons around us to shine through, while relegating ourselves to the background?

In the world of today -- with its different rules and regulations, laws and bylaws - all given for common good -- can we always seek for the "spirit of the law" rather than get lost in its letters - and always seek the big picture like St. Joseph did?

This new year, can we, like St. Joseph seek solace in silence, and yet be decisive in actions, so that God's plan for our world comes to be with us and through us?

This new year may we all resolve to become more like the St. Joseph of the Christians - whatever be our faith, backgrounds and affiliations -- for the good of humanity as a whole.

Wish you all a happy and wonderful New Year 2016.