In our present culture of death, it is almost miraculous for the hearts of fathers to be turned to their children. It's no wonder there is much gloom and "doom" (Mal 3:24) and hopelessness in a culture in which so many fathers turn away from their children.

In our society, there is rampant fornication, adultery, and "shacking up" outside of wedlock. Many men have fathered children through these sins without realizing it. In fact, it's likely they prefer not to know if they did father a child. Their hearts are not turned toward their children. If they became aware of a pregnancy, many men have then encouraged or even pressured the mother to abort the child. Such a father's heart is certainly not turned toward his child. If the child survives the womb, many fathers turn their back on these living children through neglect, non-support, or other abuse.

Even within the context of marriage, fathers regularly turn their backs on their children in many ways. Whenever fathers turn their hearts away from their children, disaster is not far away.  What if Joseph's fatherly heart was not turned toward the Child Jesus? Where would we be today — and eternally?

Fathers, ask the Lord to give you a new and greater heart for your children (see Ez 36:26). The best Christmas present you can give your children is your heart of love for them.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Richard Walling, July 7, 2004

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 19, 2004