xxiv. 16.) This is, perhaps, not your conduct: you immediately reveal whatever tends to your own commendation; and, though you may be criminal, you attempt even " to excuse yourself in your sins." (Ps. cxl. 4.)
TUESDAY.
Mary's Virginity Revealed to Joseph.— II.
I. " Behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in his sleep." (Matt. i. 20.) This angel honors St. Joseph with the title of son of David. He removes from his mind all trouble and anxiety, in relation to his spouse, by informing him of the mystery of the Incarnation. Observe how God, in due time, assists holy souls who are in distress; when all human means fail, He sends them succor from heaven. Admire the providence of God, which never abandons us, although it seems to leave us for a time. " For a small moment have I forsaken thee, but with great mercy will I gather thee." (Is. liv. 7.)
II. Consider the feelings of joy which St. Joseph experienced when he was informed of the mystery of the Incarnation, the perfect innocence of the Virgin, and her election to be the mother of God. He felt the importance of the dignity to which he was raised; he was not only the guardian and spouse of the mother of God, but he was also the reputed father of the Son of God; and, as father, he was to give Him the name of Jesus. Congratulate Him on His elevation to this honor, and reverence with singular devotion him whom both the mother and the Son so highly honored.
III. Consider the mutual joy of the Virgin and St. Joseph after the angel had revealed to him the mystery of the Incarnation. Conceive and reverence their mutual
