Friday 17 December - It's just a list or is it?

It's just a list or is it?

“The Lord has established his throne in heaven” Psalm 103:19

Readings - Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Psalm 103 and Matthew 1:1-17

Reflection
Do you avoid it? Reading the Genealogy of Jesus? It’s rare, in fact I can safely say, that I have never heard this read at a nine lessons or carol service.
Family tree investigation is a growing phenomenon. There are a number of websites, courses, books to help you track down your ancestors, who they are, where they lived and other relevant information in relation to your family history. The television programme “Who do you think you are?” illustrates this even further as delving into the past of famous people releases unknown information.

The first century Christian converts were also curious about the genealogy of Jesus. Both Matthew and Luke present it in their gospel narratives. Listeners to the gospel may easily switch off to the long list of names. But there are three striking things about these readings.

Firstly, it reminds us of the humanity of Jesus. Like each of us Jesus had a human history, all who fought and loved, sinned and repented, were faithful and unfaithful to the religion of Israel. Secondly, Jesus’ bloodline was not pure. It involved many characters involving people who broke promises, were prostitutes, adulterers, idolaters and corrupt. Not a pretty picture but Jesus is “one like us in all things except sin”. Finally, it is Joseph’s line that we trace not Marys - God’s fulfilment and the willingness of Joseph and Mary. Nothing is insignificant—not with God
involved.

Prayer

Comforting and restoring God help me again to sing your praise.

Help me to learn from past, embrace the present and hope in the future. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for whom Christmas brings on peace on earth. For those who this year have been broken by relationships with others. We remember all Pastoral visitors who seek to draw near to others.