The relationship of Joseph and Jesus is easily overlooked. The scriptures say little about this man who humbly accepted the role of stepfather to the Son of God. I am sure there were nights Joseph held Jesus in his arms and, feeling the weight of his responsibility, looked heavenward and prayed, ®He is not my son. He is Yours. Father, help me.®

My husband is a stepfather to our children, and as I watch him I am reminded of the millions of others who accept the responsibility of loving and raising children that are not their own. They change diapers, attend ball games, and bandage knees without any thought for themselves. They too look heavenward and offer the prayer of every parent, ®They are not my children. They are Yours. Father, help me.®