Monday, December 3, 2018
“A record of the ancestors of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham.” -Matthew 1:1
Heritage: *Merriam-Webster Dictionary
•property that descends to an heir.
•something transmitted by or acquired from a predecessor
•something possessed as a result of one’s natural situation or birth
This is the week of HOPE! We hope in the promises of God. Today’s scripture comes from Matthew 1:1-17. This passage is filled with the rich and vast genealogy of Jesus. I have read the passage several times over the years and each time, having difficulty pronouncing all the names. I often use an audio Bible app on my smart phone to listen to the words and names read out loud from Matthew chapter 1, it brings richness to the story and enables me to visually create images of the people listed and place them into a clearer perspective as they relate to Jesus’ birth and the fullness of His heritage. As I hear the familiar names spoken, I recall their significance of their stories that culminate at the birth of Jesus. When we take a moment and reflect upon the individuals listed in the genealogy and the specific roles each had throughout history, we see God’s handwork. We see hope in the lives of each person and the importance of their actions in fulfilling God’s promises. The beautiful part of this heritage is you and I are part of this story as well. Our parts may not be written down in a book at this point in time and I’m confident that the actions of the men and women referenced in the genealogy were not aware of the impact they would make in history. They did what they were called to do, they did what seemed to be right at the time…our lives are no different, we are called to share the “good news” of Jesus Christ and to listen and follow where the Spirit is leading us. Most of us love history, it offers a perspective that the future cannot.
When I think of my genealogy, I think of my grandparents and my great-grandparents and that’s about as far back as my memories will take me but my story does not end there, neither does yours…we are all descendants of God, the creator of humanity. We are, because He created us. Celebrate oneness with God and claim your rich heritage within Christ Jesus. Below I have provided a few verses of encouragement as we contemplate Hope, Promise and Heritage.
“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen, not only because I see it but because by it, I see everything else.” ~C.S.Lewis*The Weight if Glory – Is Theology Poetry
Galatians 3:29 (NIV)“If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Colossians 1:16 (NIV)“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”
Prayer:Lord, ground me in my own faith community. Amen.
References:
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heritage
~Peace and Blessings~
HOPE SEEKER 
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