Saint Joseph the Worker

Yesterday we celebrated the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker.

I recently heard a moving explanation of Joseph's reaction to learning that his betrothed, Mary, was pregnant.

Matthew's gospel tells us that, rather than expose Mary to public disgrace, Joseph planned to divorce her quietly.

But what would have been the consequences of such an action?

Because he did not accuse her of adultery, the people would have assumed that he was the child's father but was abandoning Mary. The shame which would have fallen on her - including the possibility of being stoned to death - would have been cast on him. Though he felt betrayed, he would have taken upon himself the reproach for what he perceived to be her sin.

Bearing the burden of another's shame.....where have we heard that before?