The Feast of St. Joseph always occurs during Lent. While Lenten penances are traditionally suspended on this solemn day — which falls on March 19 — St. Joseph can still inspire your prayers and good works throughout the season.
Here are three ways you can seek his guidance:
1. Embrace Silence
Scripture doesn’t record a single spoken or written word from St. Joseph. Although he undoubtedly conversed with Jesus, Mary and others, he was a man of quiet strength. This silence made him deeply attuned to God’s presence and voice.
Lent is the perfect time to reduce noise and distractions and spend time in silence with the Lord, whether in Adoration, during prayer or on a quiet walk through the forest. Ask St. Joseph to help you cultivate this inner stillness so you too can hear God’s guidance.
2. Put Others Before Yourself
Many people, if they discovered their fiancé were pregnant before marriage, might leave them or even publicly shame them. Not Joseph. When he learned that Mary was with child, Scripture says that “her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly” (Matthew 1:19).
An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, explained that her child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and told him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife. Joseph obeyed. Even amid confusion and uncertainty, he trusted God and chose to protect and honor her.
Follow his example by treating others with dignity, avoiding unnecessary judgment and seeking the good of those around you, even when it’s difficult. Lent is a season to grow in selflessness and compassion.
3. Serve God Through Your Work
One might expect the earthly guardian of Jesus to be a wealthy, influential man. Not St. Joseph. God chose a humble, hardworking carpenter to raise His Son. St. Joseph embraced the hardships of manual labor out of his love for God and his family.
This Lent, offer your work to God. Know that your dignity comes not from the type of job you do, but with the love you pour into your work.
St. Joseph, pray for us!
