Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Fr Roderick Salazar SVD – University of San Carlos, Cebu City
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary – March 19
Introduction
This Bible diary is called The Word in Other Words — our attempt to explain God’s Word in human language. But when we look at the life of St. Joseph, perhaps a better title would be The Word in Other Works.
Joseph’s Silent Witness
In the Gospels, Jesus speaks often, as the center of salvation history. Mary speaks a few profound words: “Let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38) and “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5). But Joseph? He says nothing. Not a single word of his is recorded.
Instead, Joseph works, dreams, obeys, and acts. He takes Mary as his wife, journeys with her to Bethlehem, protects her and the Child in Egypt, and raises Jesus in Nazareth. Without Joseph’s silent obedience, the lives of Jesus and Mary would not have unfolded as we know them.
The Word in Works
Joseph teaches us that faith is not only spoken but lived. He interprets God’s Word not in words but in deeds. His silence is not emptiness but fullness — a life of listening and doing. As Jesus Himself said: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father” (Matthew 7:21).
Joseph embodies this truth. He is the man of action, the man of obedience, the man of faith expressed in works.
Our Call
Not all of us are skilled in words. We may not preach eloquently or write profoundly. But like Joseph, we can live the Word in our works — in our daily duties, in our care for family, in our quiet service to others. God’s Word must be listened to and lived, not only spoken.
Conclusion
St. Joseph shows us that holiness is not about many words but about faithful works. He is the silent guardian, the obedient servant, the living example of The Word in Other Works.
“Lord, teach me to listen like Joseph, to act with faith, and to live Your Word in my daily works.”
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