In Thirty Days to Glory, Catherine loves the family tradition of praying a blessing over each piece of the Nativity scene. It’s a tradition I borrowed from real life at our house. Each time my husband placed Joseph on the mantle, he read this prayer:

Bless this earthly father in his simple robe. May he remind me of all that you have entrusted to my care. 

John & Mike 3

True fathers are one of the greatest blessings in the earth. And, unfortunately, they are kind of rare, I think. If I were the HR Director of the Earth, these would be some things I’d like to see on a man’s resume before he was handed a baby.

1. Recognizes his assignment and call as a dad. Even if his children weren’t birthed from his loins.

2. Takes his job seriously. Willing to flee to Egypt if necessary. (Or to work a job he doesn’t exactly love so he can provide a home for the children he does.)

3. Gets his orders from God. And teaches his children how to do the same thing.

4. Knows how to protect his offspring from evil kings. (They don’t wear crowns and carry scepters these days.)

5. Doesn’t freak out when his children start to find their own way. (Staying behind in the Temple and such.)

6. Able to train up a child in the way he should go so perfectly that said child will eventually change the world. Or at least his part of it.

This job description from the life of Joseph of Nazareth might seem like a lot to live up to. But don’t worry. The prerequisite course is simply a heavy dose of life in the Holy Ghost. You can do it.