Joseph

This morning, I sat contemplating the nativity figurines that I put out as part of our Christmas décor. As I noticed each character in this tableau, I thought about how many Christmas stories, carols, and cards mention Jesus, Mary, the three kings, angels, shepherds, and all the animals, but how very few extol Joseph’s role.

Joseph played an integral role in Jesus’ life. Even when he realizes his betrothed is pregnant and the child is not his own, Joseph sticks to his commitment. He listens carefully to God’s instructions, obeys without questioning, leads his family away from danger, and provides them with a home, an identity, and honor. Joseph enables Mary to mother and nurture Jesus. He had every right to just leave when he heard the baby was not his own. Yet, he gives up his rights, and instead devotes himself to taking care of this vulnerable woman and her child. He leads without being domineering. He seems to be aware of his role as God’s representative on earth. When I think of Joseph, I imagine a responsible, protective, hard-working man who is willing to make sacrifices for his family.

Instead of being held up as a role model, Joseph is largely ignored in our current culture. In general, the role of fathers is undervalued these days. Most men are convinced that they are the nonessential parent who plays a peripheral role in the family. Their contributions are minimized. They are often seen as mere accessories, supplemental actors in the family drama. Recognizing the value of men will not lead to the devaluing of women. Each person has an integral role.

I wish we could acknowledge, affirm, and raise awareness of the important role that men, especially fathers, play in society. I think it will just encourage men to live up to the role for which they were created.