Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. 
Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

matthew 1:16

Matthew 1:1-17

Reflection

Today’s Gospel relays the entire genealogy of Jesus according to Matthew. While the names might be strange to pronounce, they relay an important message.

Jesus is fully human, yet also fully divine. How often do we reflect that he had ancestors just like we do, not all of them the holiest of people at times? Important to note is that Joseph is called the husband of Mary, and Jesus is identified as being born of her, not St. Joseph. In this, Jesus’ divine nature is also revealed. Yet it is clear he is still fully Joseph’s son, too.

Jesus had a family and family history, as we all do. When it’s difficult to picture Jesus understanding you, remember that he too experienced everyday human life. He is as much part of the human story as anyone, and even more so!

Reflect on the Holy Family – the beauty, goodness, and holiness they display. Ask Jesus to grant you a deeper understanding of the ordinary life he experienced. Jesus was a child once, just like us. And in a few weeks, we get to celebrate that Baby coming into the world.

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Saint of the Day

St. Olympias: AD 368 – 408

“Do not be deceived by the goods of this world. The true treasure lies in serving God and in aiding those who suffer.” St. Olympias