We all know that God chose Joseph to be the husband of Mary. Sacred Scripture introduces him to us:
“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.” —Luke 1:26-27
But how did God bring Joseph into Mary’s life? What did their betrothal look like? Although it is not described in Sacred Scripture, Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich received a vision of their betrothal, and it is a beautiful and moving scene.
Joseph, though a descendant of King David, led a simple life as a carpenter in Nazareth. Joseph, known for his humility, had a reputation for holiness in Nazareth.
When the priests in the temple sought a man to be the protector and husband of Mary, a young virgin who had dedicated herself to God, Joseph was called along with others from his tribe.
The priests gave each man a dry branch, praying for a sign to reveal God’s choice. The men and the onlookers held their breath and prayed for a sign.
Suddenly, Joseph’s branch bloomed with beautiful white lilies—symbols of purity and innocence—marking him as the one chosen by God to be Mary’s spouse.
Mary accepted this engagement with trust. She knew that God’s plan was unfolding, and though she had vowed to remain a virgin, she recognized that this betrothal to Joseph was part of a larger purpose. Neither of them could have expected what God was about to do with their quiet obedience…
Through marriage, the Chaste Heart of St. Joseph and the Immaculate Heart of Mary were joined together. As a family, these two Hearts were joined together with the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Bring the example of the Three Hearts of the Holy Family into your home with this beautiful Three Hearts Vintage Framed Print. With the encouraging words, “In these three hearts, I put my trust!” this print is a gentle daily reminder to put our worries and anxieties in the tender Hearts of the Holy Family. Order yours today from The Catholic Company!
