Joseph’s Death

We don’t know anything about the death of Joseph the carpenter. We know Joseph was there for Mary when by the power of the Holy Spirit she became pregnant with Jesus; he was willing to quietly divorce her to save her from shame, but the Holy Spirit instead told him to marry her.

We believe he helped raise Jesus and then taught Him to be a carpenter. He cared for Jesus; but then Jesus taught us to call no one Father but God.

Does this dismiss Joseph and all the earthly fathers?

When Joseph died, was Jesus there?

I can only express my personal views, but here are my thoughts.

Earthly fathers, and mothers, are given the opportunity to minister to their children as the very representative of God. We do not replace Him; instead we are appointed stewards of the children that He has brought into the world.

So, just as Joseph cared for Jesus, our parents cared for us and so we care for our children.

I believe that Jesus was there for Joseph when he died. I believe that when the time came, Jesus comforted him as only Jesus could, and even knowing what awaited Joseph in paradise, I believe Jesus wept, just as we do for our own parents.

It only makes sense if you believe we’re travelers, passing through this life on our way to where we belong.