Put the family back in the hands of the Father

By Bill Harkins, Mobile, Ala., -St. Ignatius


As Men of St. Joseph, we are familiar with our calling to “Put the family back in the hands of the Father.”

What does this mean? How can we do it on a daily basis? To borrow a few words from one of my heroes, St. Padre Pio, try this: “Pray. Hope. Don’t Worry.”

Pray. When was the last time you got on your knees with your wife and kids and talked to God? What better way to put them in His hands! Turn off the TV for 15 minutes, put the dog outside, place a Crucifix on a table and bring your family in front of it on their knees. Lead them in thanking God for his blessings (be specific, like your health, the dinner you just ate, etc). Then ask for continued gifts from Him. Let everyone take turns and end with a familiar prayer together like the Our Father or Hail Mary.

Hope. Teach your children about our Faith. Discuss the Saints and how we are all called to Heaven. Use the Magnificat, that little magazine many of us pray with at our meetings. It has great little, one page descriptions of many Saints’ lives. Tap into the internet for further ideas (http://www.catholic.org/saints/stindex.php). The Church is based on Hope; pass it along to your kids.

Don’t Worry. Be a living example of stress free living. Easier said than done, I know. This is not a natural inclination for most of us. Think of the example you will be for your family though. Enjoy God’s gift of life, get some exercise with your kids, take them to the beach or a park. It’s not important what you do as much as it is you do something besides hanging out at the house. The exercise will help relieve pressure, give you all a better appreciation for each other – and its fun! Also, when stress pops up, pray (see above). Take some time by yourself and pray for help from God instead of cussing or punching a wall. It is amazing how He can help us when we ask.

Remember, as the Dad, you are critical to the spiritual well being of your family. Practice what Jesus preached. Life is not always easy, but with God’s help, it can be great!