The Christmas Code - December 3, 2022
THERE IS GRACE IN THE FAMILY TREE OF JESUS
Solomon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth.
Matthew 1:5
If time permitted, we could stop at each of the dozen of names in Christ's genealogy and speak of the grace behind their lives. But there are four obvious testimonies of grace that should catch our eyes. They are all women, and in that ancient world it was unheard-of to see women listed in genealogy tables.
First is Tamar (Matthew 1:3). Who was she? Let me introduce her. She once dressed as a prostitute, seduced her father-in-law, and had an illegitimate child (Genesis 38). We also read of Rahab (Matthew 1:5). She was the town prostitute of ancient Jericho. Next comes Ruth (v. 5). She was a member of a race that began in incest and worshipped pagan gods. Finally we meet Bathseba (v. 6). She lived in adultery with King David.
How did these women find their way into Jesus' own family tree? Only one word: grace! God's unmerited favor.
CODE WORD: FAVOR
There is good news this Christmas. Where sin abounds, grace much more abounds... for you. What is the Lord telling us? I don't think He is speaking softly -- "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17).
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Lord, thank You for giving me what I never deserved ... an amazing gift: grace!
In Jesus' name, amen.