Purposeful living

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham . . . (Matthew 1:1) 

Reflecting on the miracle of Christmas, St. Paul wrote, “When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to ransom those under the law, so that we might receive adoption” (Galatians 4:4-5). Today’s Gospel shows us that this “fullness of time” comprises many generations, each one peopled with colorful individuals whose stories still speak to us. 

Included in this list of Jesus’ ancestors are many kings and powerful warriors. It’s interesting—and a bit comforting—that the Hebrew Scriptures tell us, not only about their heroic exploits, but also about their selfish and destructive choices. David, for instance, was not only “a man after [God’s] own heart.” He was also a schemer, an adulterer, and a murderer (Acts 13:22; 2 Samuel 12:1-12).

Matthew’s list also includes many common people and some who were far from admirable. What’s more, considering the cultural barriers that women faced at the time, the fact that Matthew’s genealogy mentions women at all shows this is a different sort of history. Something unique, intriguing, and mysterious is at work, and God is behind it!

There are also many people in this list about whom sacred Scripture is otherwise silent. For instance, we know nothing at all about many of those who lived “after the Babylonian exile” (Matthew 1:12). These names all point to the “silent saints” who have served (and who continue to serve) the Lord in their hidden lives of prayer, sacrifice, and obedience.

Besides the fact that this genealogy testifies to Jesus’ historical existence, it can give us great encouragement. Whether we know a great deal or nothing at all about them, every single person on this list was an essential link in the plan God formed long ago for our salvation.

It’s not too great a stretch of the imagination to believe that each of us also plays an important role in what God is doing in this outpost of his eternal kingdom. In his wisdom, God has placed each one of us right where he wants us. Let’s humbly ask him to help us further his plan.

“O Wisdom, breath of the Most High, pervading and permeating all creation, come and save us.”

from wau.org