Chaplain's sermon from "JAG" episode "Answered Prayers"
Originally aired December 2001
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When God revealed Himself to us, He did so through a family, which
is why I speak to you tonight of Joseph, the forgotten man of the
Christmas story.  We know much about Mary, and, of course, the
Christ child, but the Bible makes few references into the life of
Joseph.  Therefore, he remains somewhat of a mystery, much as many
of our own fathers do.

But we do know that Joseph was a gentle father and a courageous
man.  He saved his family from Herod by taking them on the
dangerous journey to Egypt; taught his son his own trade, as
fathers do even today.  Joseph died before Jesus grew up to
become a man, and begin his ministry.  Yet Joseph still believed:
"Blessed are those who believe that He will bind up the
brokenhearted and free the captives."

At his best, a father is the solid foundation of a house, his
support taken for granted.  At other times, he may need shoring up
himself.  He may be tired; he may be impatient; he may be mired in
in his own problems.

But always the father looks beyond the here and now.  He keeps one
eye trained on the next generation, so as a necessity, he is a man
filled with hope, hope that a knowing God watches over the
universe, hope that justice will prevail, hope that we will be
reunited with our loved ones.

As St. Paul said, "Abide by these three: Faith, Hope and Love;
the greatest of these is Love."

So when we give thanks to the Father for our blessings, let us not
forget Joseph ... or our own fathers ... that they not be
forgotten this Christmas.

May God bless you.  And Merry Christmas.