LEARN from his title what manner of man was blessed
Joseph. For although he was only a deputy, he was found worthy, both of being
called, and of being believed to be, the father of God. Learn it also from his
own name, which undoubtedly means, Increase. And at the same time call to mind
that great Patriarch who was sold into Egypt in olden times: and be assured
that this Joseph not only had the same name, but also attained unto his
chastity and equaled him in innocence and grace.
THAT Joseph, sold through the envy of his brothers
and led into Egypt, prefigured the selling of Christ: this Joseph, fleeing from
the envy of Herod, carried Christ into Egypt. The former, faithfully serving
his master, would have no intercourse with his lord's wife: the latter, knowing
that his wife, the Mother of his Lord, was a virgin, and being chaste himself,
faithfully guarded her.
THERE is no doubt but that this Joseph was a good
and faithful man, he to whom the Mother of the Savior was espoused. He was, I
say, the faithful and wise servant whom his Lord hath made protector of his
Mother, guardian of his own Manhood, and, in short, the sole and most faithful
assistant on earth of his mighty counsel.
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