And what is the original meaning of work? We read it in the Book of Genesis. God gave man, created in his image and likeness, a command: Fill the earth and subdue it (Gen 1:28).

In God’s plan, work is therefore seen as a right and duty. Necessary to make the earth’s resources benefit the life of each person and of society, it helps to direct human activity towards God in the fulfillment of his command to subdue the earth.

In this regard, another of the apostle’s exhortations echoes in our souls: So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (Cor 10:31).

The mystery of the Incarnation invites us to reflect with particular intensity on the hidden life of Jesus in Nazareth. It was there that he spent most of his earthly life.

With his silent diligence in Joseph’s workshop, Jesus gave the highest proof of the dignity of work. His fellow villagers welcomed him with surprise asking one another: Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is this not the carpenter’s son? (Mt 13:54-55).

The Son of God did not disdain being called a "carpenter". He did not want to be spared the normal condition of every human being.

The eloquence of the life of Christ is unequivocal: he belongs to the working world. He has appreciation and respect for human work. It can indeed be said that he looks with love upon human work and the different forms it takes, seeing in each one of these forms a particular facet of man’s likeness with God, the Creator and Father (Encyclical Laborem Exercens, n. 26).

After centuries of heated social and ideological tensions, the contemporary world, ever more interdependent, needs "the Gospel of Work" so that human activity can promote the authentic development of individuals and of all humanity.

We need to address the economic and social imbalances in the world of work by re-establishing the right hierarchy of values, giving priority to the dignity of working men and women and to their freedom, responsibility, and participation. We must also be spurred to redress situations of injustice.

I entrust all workers and their families to St. Joseph, a worker and just man, and to his most holy wife, Mary.

Bless, O Lord, the daily work by which men and women provide bread for themselves and their loved ones. We also offer to your fatherly hands the toil and sacrifices associated with work, in union with your Son, Jesus Christ, who redeemed human work from the yoke of sin and restored it to its original dignity.

To you be praise and glory today and forever. Amen.