Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 UNIVERSAL SALVATION IN CHRIST

Matthew 1:1-17
Verse 17: Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.

Have you ever created a family tree? It can be amazing to see how relationships fit together and to know the people who have contributed to your family line. Acknowledging the grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who were a part of your family history also helps in confirming your own identity.

Who you are now is a product of those who came before you.

The Gospel of Matthew is the only one that starts by listing out the genealogy of Christ. We see Matthew placing importance on readers knowing the ancestry of Christ as they journey in knowing the life of Christ. Matthew 1:1-17 gives us a detailed breakdown starting from Abraham all the way to the birth of Jesus. A promise made long ago comes to pass many generations later, and we see God using some unexpected individuals along the way.

There are two that we should pay particular attention to. The first is Perez, son of Judah, who was born out of trickery and lies (Genesis 38). The second is Rahab, a woman referred to as a prostitute (Joshua 2). Why would God choose to use them as a part of the lineage of Christ? Out of all the “righteous” people He could’ve picked, why two who would’ve been considered low in spiritual and societal status?

Even in our sins and shortcomings, God still wants to use us for His glory. Our unfaithfulness does not remove His faithful purpose for us. His plan to use us for His kingdom does not disappear when we make mistakes or stray away. We remain an essential part of bringing the Lord’s salvation to many.

Those who are rejected by man will never be rejected by God.

If we are willing, the Lord can do amazing and powerful things through us and our future generations. Do not simply see your prayers, service, and time spent with God in the present as individualistic, but as one of great impact on generations yet to come. One day when your family thinks of you, may they learn of the vital part you played in strengthening the foundation of faith within the family line. May who you are today leave an example of true faith and devotion for many to follow and continue forward. 

Prayer

Father, we come before you asking to be used as instruments that carry forward your love and peace. Help us to continually focus on developing our inner selves, so that we can live aligned with your purpose. May the actions and words of today bring positive fruit to those around us. May our generations be blessed because of who you are and the anointing you have given us. In all things, may your name be praised. Amen.


Thought for the Day

I play a greater purpose in the lives of future generations in my family and church community. I have been chosen to leave a legacy of Christ for many to experience and continue to pass on.

Betsy Chacko
The Mar Thoma Church, Staten Island

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