The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ,
the son of David, the son of Abraham.
The total number of generations
from Abraham to David
is fourteen generations;
from David to the Babylonian exile, fourteen generations;
from the Babylonian exile to the Christ,
fourteen generations. (Mt 1:1,17)
It was so very important for many writers of the scriptures to place Jesus in His historical context. They wanted people to know that Jesus had firm rooting in Salvation History and that He was, indeed, the fulfillment of a promise made long ago.
Because of that, they trace His origins from Abraham through David and on through to the moment He was born. The only problem that we see immediately is that Jesus’ origin was divine. He was the Son of God, born into our human history.
Many people find the birth of Jesus complicated. Some find it so complicated that they end up refusing to believe in Him.
All we need to know is that Jesus Christ was born of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Joseph, his foster-father, who was of the lineage of David, took Him into his care and helped Mary to raise Jesus. They were family and that is all that really matters.
Our lineage is sometimes a little murky. Some people know every person in their family tree to the beginning of time. Some people do not even know their own aunts, uncles, or cousins. Yet, we all find it important to be able to identify our roots from time to time in our lives. Whether it evolves as a matter of curiosity or out of a sense of urgency (perhaps a new medical condition), we want to know from where and whom we come.
The Reader’s Digest Condensed Version? We came from God and we are on our way back to God. In the middle of all of that, God has placed wonderful people in our lives to watch us, to celebrate with us, to grow with us, and to walk with us on our faith journey.
FAITH ACTION: As you pray this day, attempt to trace a “faith lineage”. Who are the important people in your life who have introduced you to the faith, educated you in the faith, or sustain you in the faith. Say a prayer of gratitude for them.