The Life of Mary and Joseph

The Life of Mary

• Theologian Romano Guardini praised Mary's response to a divine request, highlighting her profound dignity and unconsciousness of her act.
• Mary declared, "I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word."
• Gabriel departed after Mary's acceptance.
• Mary prepared to visit Elizabeth and engage in the unfolding of God's plan

The Visitation

• Ein Kerem, near Jerusalem, was the location of Elizabeth and Zechariah's home, several days' journey from Nazareth.
• Mary likely wasn't alone on her journey.
• The Gospels don't explicitly state whether Joseph accompanied Mary.
• The journey to Jerusalem for Passover or a merchant caravan's journey could be part of Mary's motivations.
• Mary's journey likely lasted three to four days.

About Joseph

• Mary informed Joseph about her pregnancy.
• Joseph, characterized by modesty and circumspection, chose to quietly divorce Mary, in accordance with Jewish law.
• An angel intervened in Joseph's dream, urging him not to abandon Mary, revealing that the child in her womb was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
• The angel instructed Joseph to name the child Jesus, signifying that he would save his people from their sins.
• Joseph followed the angelic command, taking Mary as his wife, allowing her to give birth.
• He helped raise Jesus as his foster father.
• The New Testament does not include Joseph's spoken words, resulting in the nickname "Joseph the Silent."
• Importantly, the Gospels reveal Joseph's character as a just man, suggesting high character and profound piety.