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Matthew 1:17, 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.

While we may sometimes have a tendency to skip over genealogies, this one in Matthew 1 is truly significant.  First, we can see the connection between the Old Testament and the birth of Jesus.  As we read through the names on the list, we get a picture of God’s history of redemption for his people.  Abraham and David are highlights, as both were recipients of God’s promises for the people of Israel, significant parts of redemptive history. 

Another reason I love this genealogy is that five women are specifically mentioned.  This was at a time when women were basically never mentioned in the history of patriarchal societies.  And here we are, five very unique and interesting women – Tamar (who was quite tricky to achieve her purpose), Rahab (at one point a prostitute), Ruth (a Moabite), Uriah’s wife (Bathsheba), and Mary.  The first four women were Gentiles or married to Gentiles, they were outsiders to a certain extent, and yet they had tenacious faith, the kind that would be critical for faith in Jesus.  This focus on Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba leads to the introduction of Mary.  It’s like the author is saying, “Don’t discount Mary!”  She may not be who you would expect to be the mother of the Savior of the world but God uses all kinds of people!  God lifts up all kinds of women, those who are proper and those who aren’t.  What a beautiful reminder that the Gospel is for ALL.

Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, Thank you for the incarnation.  Thank you for becoming one of us as a way of demonstrating your amazing love.  May we have the tenacious faith of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary.  We love you, Amen.