Genealogy
Today’s Gospel reading outlines the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David.
It is common these days for individuals to be interested in their family’s genealogy in order to carve out a place for one's family in the larger historical picture and to fulfill a responsibility to preserve the past for future generations.
This Gospel from Matthew, tracing the genealogy of Jesus Christ, is driven by these same motives. Yet, the Gospel also highlights how His genealogy speaks to the mystery and grace surrounding the birth of the son of man.
There are 14 generations from Abraham, the father of Israel, until the birth of David the king; 14 generations from the birth of David until exile in Babylon and 14 generations from the exile in Babylon until Joseph, the husband of Mary and the birth of Jesus Christ.
The message in this Gospel heeds the future coming of a new king, Jesus Christ, who lived among the people to reveal the mysteries of his ministry as the son of man. He gives hope to the poor, to those suffering and in need, and guides us to find peace in our lives. His birth brought a light to the world and fills our hearts with a grace to live a life in his service.
As you take your place in your family’s genealogy, will future generations speak to your devotion to living your faith in the example of the son of man?
Ken Henriksen
Faith Formation Commission
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