|
February 24th: The Manhood of Jesus
The subjection of Jesus did not cease when
He arrived at the age of manhood. He seemed, impossible, to rejoice then even more than before in
obeying His Holy Mother and St. Joseph. It was
enough for Him to know that they wished anything
of Him, and it was done without a moment
of needless delay. Nay, He continually anticipated
their desires, and in His thoughtful love carried
them into effect unbidden. Is this the character
of my obedience? or am I slow to carry out
the wishes of those who have a claim upon me,
even when I know them full well? Jesus, in the fullness of His manhood, still worked on in the carpenter's shop at Nazareth. As long as Joseph lived, He acted as his assistant, worked under his directions; after his death He carried on for some time the business of His foster- father. Who would have guessed that this humble artisan was the coequal Son of God? Thus, O Jesus, Thou didst reverse the world's ideas. Grant that I may learn to despise none, but to see in the humblest Thy brethren and representatives. Joseph's death left the cottage at Nazareth sadly desolate. Never was there so fond a spouse as Mary, never so affectionate a Son as Jesus. In proportion to their love was their grief at their common loss. Their knowledge that St. Joseph had passed to the bosom of Abraham did not restore the brightness of his presence to the cottage at Nazareth. Jesus and Mary can sympathize with the anguish of those whose longing desires go forth after one whom they have lost, even though they know that he is in Paradise.
Music: The Shepherds' Farewell
from L' Enfance du Christ Op. 25 by Hector Berlioz
1. Thou must leave Thy lowly dwelling,
The humble crib, the stable bare. Babe, all mortal babes excelling, Content our earthly lot to share. Loving father, Loving mother, Shelter Thee with tender care! 2. Blessed Jesus, we implore Thee With humble love and holy fear. In the land that lies before Thee, Forget not us who linger here! May the shepherd's lowly calling, Ever to Thy heart be dear! 3. Blest are ye beyond all measure, Thou happy father, mother mild! Guard ye well your heav'nly treasure, The Prince of Peace, The Holy Child! God go with you, God protect you, Guide you safely through the wild! |