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February 5th: The Carpenter's Shop
Let us look into the humble shed where
Joseph is working at his trade of a carpenter, and
Jesus is working too, under the direction of His
foster-father. Joseph's skill is not great; the products
of his handiwork are not such as would find
favor in a modern workshop. They are neat and
carefully made, but they are not elaborate works of
art. Yet in the eyes of God how beautiful and
graceful they appear, how much more beautiful
than any that ever proceeded from the hands of
the most accomplished artist. Congratulate St.
Joseph on the merit that he acquired by each
stroke of his chisel and every blow of his hammer,
and pray that your works may be of similar value
in the sight of God. What was it that gave to the labors of St. Joseph such exceeding value in the sight of the Most High? It was the purity of the motive with which they were done. This it is that decides the character of our actions in the sight of God, not their external comeliness. How will my actions stand this test? Are they not too often done from vanity and a love of display, or from motives of selfishness, or a hope of earthly reward? By Joseph's side his little assistant is at work. Observe how exactly He carries out in every detail His master's instructions. He never departs from them in the smallest detail, never attempts to improve upon them, or correct what is faulty in them. This is the perfection of true obedience; to carry out the will of the superior just as he wills it, and because he so wills it.
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! |