Matthew 1:1-6 – This is the list of the ancestors of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David, who was a descendant of Abraham. From Abraham to King David, the following ancestors are listed: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah and his brothers; then Perez and Zerah (their mother was Tamar), Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz (his mother was Rahab), Obed (his mother was Ruth), Jesse, and King David. (GNT)

I had decided that I would begin Advent by reading the book of Matthew. Of course, like several other books of the Bible, it included the dreaded family tree. Ho hum, what a bore. I was tempted to skip this part until the Spirit nudged me not to cheat. Okay, I thought, if You think it's so important to read, then grant me some enlightenment, Lord, regarding these verses. And He did.

It dawned on me that just as the lineage of Christ is all written down, so God knows my lineage from start to finish. This thought absolutely stopped me in my tracks. Such a thing had never occurred to me before. Since time began, God has known exactly who my ancestors are and who my descendants will be. He knows exactly who the first person in my line was to know Him, as well as who the last one will be before His return. How absolutely incredible!

Then, another thought took root. All those of faith in my line, those whom I have never met or even heard of, will be waiting for me in heaven when God calls me home. My heart leapt within me at this reality. It was astounding to consider such a family reunion, a truth that brought such excitement within my heart that I can hardly wait to meet them all and hear their stories of faith and encouragement. And even more amazing is that God knows everyone in your family tree as well, from start to finish.

So this Christmas, I have already received the most amazing and unexpected gift, and it all came about by reading what I considered to be one of the most boring parts of the Bible, the family tree of Jesus. This just goes to remind me that, indeed, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV 2011)

Prayer: What an amazing and marvellous God You are, O Lord! How blessed we are to be part of Your family. Thank You for all those who have gone before us and all those who will descend from us who have known You and will know You through Christ, our Lord and Saviour, in Whose name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lynne Phipps <lynnephippsatlin@gmail.com>
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada
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