Bernardine of Siena says, is the dispenser of all the graces which God grants to men, in what profusion must we not believe that she showered them down upon her spouse, whom she loved so much, and by whom she was so tenderly loved!
- St. Joseph, increase my devotion to Mary.
XIV.
The two disciples going to Emmaus were inflamed with divine love by the few moments which they spent in company with Our Saviour, and by His words. What flames of holy love must we not suppose to have been enkindled in the heart of St. Joseph, who for thirty years conversed with Jesus Christ, and listened to His words of eternal life; who observed the perfect example which He gave of humility and patience, and saw the promptitude with which He obeyed and helped him in his labors, and in all that was needed for the household!
- St. Joseph, inflame us with the love of Jesus.
XV.
THE apostle writes that in the next life Jesus Christ " will render to every man according to his works" (Rom. ii. 6). What great glory must we not suppose that He bestowed upon St. Joseph, who served and loved Him so much whilst He lived on earth! Our Lord has promised a reward to him who gives a cup of cold water to the poor in His name; what, then, .must be the reward of St. Joseph, who can say to Jesus Christ: " I not only provided Thee with food, with a dwelling, and with clothes; but I saved Thee from death, delivering Thee from the hands of Herod"!
- St Joseph, do thou animate our zeal for growing in virtue by the hope of eternal rewards.
