Christian biographer James Keifer writes of St. Joseph, the Guardian of the Lord, “In the face of circumstances where a man of lesser character might have reacted differently, Joseph graciously assumed the role of Jesus’ father.” 

I’ve spent the past several days visiting the home of a friend who is fostering M., an abused dog who is mother to six 3 day old pups.  One who assumes  the role of foster parent of unique as they have no biological claim to the young one but loves and cares for them just the same.  Adoption is a conscious decision to take responsibility where none is required. 

I wonder what might have happened to this sweet mama dog and her pups had they not been rescued and given a warm and loving home? What might have been the fate of Mary and the unborn Jesus had Joseph made a different choice?

- Ellyn Siftar