I have to smile when I think that Joe the Plumber has St. Joseph the worker as his special friend and patron saint. But St. Joseph belongs to all the regular Joes as well: all the fathers and foster fathers, all single men and young boys. They can all claim him for a friend and mentor. St. Joseph has a carpenter's tent big enough for every man or boy no matter who his other patrons are.
And what a model he is - a real man's man: strong, patient, courageous enough to leave town with his family at night on a road commonly traveled by robbers. No arguments with God, just a hasty response to God's will. Scripture tells us he's a "just man," no small feat in any age. He says not one word in Scripture, but his faithful presence and his prompt obedience to God's will speak volumes. He's a model for us wives and mothers too. If you want to know how to support your spouse, ask St. Joseph. He'll never fail you.
