Advent: Day Eight

So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations.—Matthew 1:17

As we light the second candle of Advent and set our hearts toward the celebration of Christ’s birth, everything in the media, stores, and even many churches at this time of year would have us believe that Christmas is just a cute story. So precious. But it’s not a cute story at all. In fact, it’s the most scandalous thing that has ever happened in the history of the world. Breathtaking in its beauty and awe-inspiring in light of everything we believe is possible.

The Book of Matthew tells the story wonderfully well. However, it kicks off with the genealogy of Christ, which might be considered highly skippable... until you recall that all parts of the Bible are the inspired word of God. Yes, even the genealogies.

In Matthew’s case, this family tree is all about the scandal of Jesus Christ.

Matthew’s genealogy consists of a long list of men and five women. Mary, we know as the mother of Jesus, but what about these other four ladies? Who are these Grandmothers of Christmas, and why should we care about them?

Meditation: Jesus Christ is the exclamation point of the final sentence of a very long, complex, and beautiful story. He is the reason for everything that came before Him. What can the people in Jesus’ family tree tell us about Him that we don’t already know?

Prayer: Lord, help me to remember that every part of Scripture is divinely inspired and important. Holy Spirit, I ask that you would guide my learning and remind me that your words are living and active. All of your words, and not just some.