Solemnity of Saint Joseph

St. Joseph serves as a wonderful model for those discerning a call to religious life. We all know the story, Joseph intended to divorce Mary quietly and move on with his life... But God spoke to Joseph and told him "do not be afraid." And "When Joseph awoke he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him..." Matthew 1:24

I am not sure that all of Joseph's questions at that moment were answered but the message he received from God assured him enough to stay with Mary. Similarly when we feel called to the priesthood or religious life, we may not have all the answers but we trust in God that we will find our way. I am reminded of a quote by Martin Luther King Jr. which fits into this idea of trusting God: "Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."