Jon took us into Matthew 1: 1-24 today.  If you have ever been to therapy, it may start with a discussion of your family and how that has impacted you.  Our origin has influence.  Our origin shapes and forms us.  Through the origin of Jesus, we see who Jesus is and in turn we can see who we are.  This is why Matthew tells the story of the origin and genealogy of Jesus.  

Just a reminder that Matthew was writing to a Jewish audience and the book of Matthew was written 20 years after the death of Jesus.  Over and over in the genealogy it lists fathers, until you get to Joseph where it states “Joseph, the HUSBAND of Mary.”  In biblical times, having a baby out of wedlock was extremely tragic.  The penalty for a pregnancy during a betrothal period was death.  Due to this, Joseph was trying to be honorable and “divorce her quietly.”  

In order for the prophecies to come true, Jesus had to be of the lineage of David.  God spoke to Joseph through an angel, that he was to adopt Jesus.  Jesus is literally adopted into the lineage of David.  I love how Jon shared that this shows the heart of God for adoption.  Through this, the prophecy was fulfilled.  

Vs 21 states “He will save HIS people.”  The people of Israel have failed over and over again.  Jesus has come to save them.   We ALL need Jesus (God save) to save us.  Is Jesus someone you need to follow?  

Jon closed with talking about how God is always with us.  So many times, we miss God because we are too busy to believe and feel and listen.  This should point us to a better, more committed prayer life.  

The book of Matthew opens and closes with the presence of God being with you.  Jon left us with 2 questions to ponder this week: 

#1:  Where do you need to be rescued?  What is taking your time, energy and focus away from time with Jesus?  

#2:  What does being with Jesus look like?  Make a concrete effort this week to spend time with Jesus.  Block off time.  Be specific and stick to it.