Today’s Gospel passage comes from the beginning of Matthew, and it lists all the ancestors of Jesus, beginning with Abraham. What’s the point? Even if God inspired Matthew to include this genealogy (we firmly believe all Scripture is inspired by God), why do we take time to read it? Fifty-two generations from Abraham to “…Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.” Matthew is writing to a Jewish audience (and to us); he wants us to understand the Jesus was truly born of Mary. As Son of David, Jesus is the Christ, the Anointed One. Jesus truly is Son of God and Son of Mary. As we approach Christmas let us take time to reflect on this magnificent event: “The Word was made flesh and became MAN.”

Prayer
O God, you created everything that has ever existed, and you have given me the breath of life, here and now, in the 21st Century since the birth of Jesus. I can never thank you enough for the wonderful gift of your Son, who took on a human nature like the one you have given me. “Let the words of my mouth be acceptable, the thoughts of my heart before you, LORD, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:15)

Action
Brighten someone’s day today by visiting, calling, or sending them a card or letter.