When reading the nativity account, it is impossible to overlook the misfits and infamous found in Jesus’ genealogy. The Apostle Paul knew his heritage, and discounted it quickly, depending on Jesus alone. (Philippians 3:1-11) So, why should we be surprised that our clans have a few of the infamous sneak in?
In the nativity story, a sample of the infamous and questionable includes Tamar, one whose biography is “Rated X” for adult content. Her story is rife with grief, deception, and incest. And yet, Tamar, and Judah, are listed as Jesus’ ancestors. Rahab was a prostitute. Ruth, a Moabite, was a Gentile. David, a philanderer and murderer, is included. Solomon was what we call a “love child” today. Manasseh and Amon would be the subject of uneasiness for family reunion organizers. “Amon did evil in the eyes of the LORD, as his father Manasseh had done. He walked in all the ways of his father; he worshiped the idols his father had worshiped, and bowed down to them. He forsook the LORD, the God of his fathers, and did not walk in the way of the LORD.” (2 Kings 21:20,21) One can almost hear Aunt Ruthie and Uncle Caleb trying to figure out a way to explain Amon and Manasseh with polite language to their elementary school aged children.
Since these things are true, right there in the Bible, what take-away lessons can be applied?
• None of us have chosen our parents, or our family. So, don’t cower in embarrassment or strut with pride! The Pharisees were fastidious about purity rituals, decorum, and piety, but every one of them would be ashamed with who fell out when their family tree was shaken. Just walk humbly and never lose the sense of awe for being included!
• Family connections do not qualify or disqualify us from God’s affections. Our heavenly Father chooses us, not the other way around! The first and continuous wonder of salvation is, “Why did He chose me?”
• Past behavior doesn’t disqualify us from God’s favor or salvation. Rahab and David illustrate the point. If you knew some of the things I have done, and am ashamed of ... and, would you like me to know everything about you?
• Brothers and sisters in the faith are all imperfect and we sometimes embarrass one another. Let us be careful that we do not hold others to a higher standard than we hold ourselves. Keep inviting the family, even those who may embarrass us, and welcome them, to the family reunions on Lord’s Day and at our Father’s Table.
• Celebrate the reality that God so loved us that He made Christmas! He sent His Son to save us, not condemn us!
Remember, if we would dare look closely enough, we would all find questionable, infamous people hanging on our family tree. Even Jesus would have a few ignoble, unsavory characters trying to crash a family reunion!
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