A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham: Matthew 1:1
It is unlikely many people enjoy reading the first chapter of Matthew. For years, I skipped that part. It was just so.... boring.
But as I have grown older in age and in my spiritual life, I have changed my perception.
I would love to say that my life has been the perfect example of a spirit filled woman, and that I had walked closely to God every step of the way... but I can't. Although He has never been far from me, I spent too much time walking away from Him, and doing "my" thing.
I see the lives of my children now, all spread out between six and 24, and I watch them make some of the same mistakes I did... I do. Not all of my children are serving the Lord the way I would want, some are, and for that I am grateful every day!
So what is it that gives me hope for my future, for my children's future, for the generations to come, should the Lord tarry? The genealogy of Jesus.......... for in this line of men and women listed in Matthew.... you have people like David. He had a heart after God, but he was a sinner - a murderer - an adulterer. He found redemption and changed history.
The Savior of the world, the one who was was crucified, dead and buried and rose again.... was the grandson of a sinner.... But oh what power Jesus held.
Now... I read the genealogy listed in Matthew, and I think of those mentioned and their stories. And I have a hope, that my past is purchased and forgiven. That my present is great enough to do amazing things through the power of the cross, and my future is still being written in my life, in my children's and in those to come.
Jesus, I am so thankful that the Word of God is true. I can believe it all, and know that men and women who served you, whose history is recorded in this book, failed miserably at times, but still was redeemed and changed history. I praise Your name, that forgiveness is mine. That my past is a tool I can use for the good of others, and that my present is enough for you to work through. I am in awe of the thought, that my lineage can still change the world. You are so good. Amen.
