MONDAY.
Mary's Virginity Revealed to Joseph.— I.
I. The singular sanctity of St. Joseph corresponded with his exalted office. God had not yet revealed to him the mystery of the Incarnation in order to prove both his and the Virgin's virtue. When he perceived her pregnancy, he was much troubled, and " being a just man, and not willing publicly to expose her, he thought of putting her away privately." (Matt. i. 19.) Thus, God frequently tries the virtue and perseverance of His servants, though only for a time; for " He shall not suffer the just to waver forever." (Ps. liv. 23.)
II. Consider the many virtues which the holy man exercised in this perplexity of mind : Patience, in supporting and concealing the matter; charity, in not reproaching her; prudence, in taking mature deliberation with himself in regard to what ought to be done. Imitate his example when you discover anything apparently wrong in the conduct of your neighbor; avoid rash judgment, and follow the advice of St. Bernard : "excuse the intention, if you cannot the fact; consider it a mistake, judge it a surprise, think it a chance."
III. Consider the admirable virtues which the Virgin also exercised during this perplexity of St. Joseph. She alleges nothing in her own defence, although she might have done so. Her honor was in question in a matter of the highest and most delicate importance. She chooses to be silent, however, and rather to commit the matter to God alone than publish anything which might redound to her own praise. "My secret to myself," she might have said with Isaias. (Is.
