By Vicky Lamin Gayang csc –
Readings: Gen 49:2, 8-10; Mt 1:1-17
The genealogy of Jesus tells us that Jesus did not spring out of nowhere.
He was truly human just as we are. Jesus’ family tree is a mix of holy and unholy figures, sinners, and outcasts. Yet, each played an important role in bringing Jesus to this cosmos. Therefore, we can clearly see that no one’s life is insignificant in God’s plan.
We all do have our own family trees. But how many of us are curious enough to know where we came from and who we belong to? We all come from a family and it is the family that has shaped and formed us from the time we were in our mother’s womb. Moreover, it is from the family that we have begun to learn about life. Jesus too was formed and shaped by his family. Mary and Joseph were his first teachers who taught him about the love and goodness of God.
The Gospel reading today make me think of how my life and faith depends on my family as well as on so many people about whom I know so little about, both alive as well as those who have gone before us. In fact, they, along with my family and teachers, have played a major part in my life. They are the ones who have educated me in all areas of life as well as the first source of my faith in Jesus Christ. Having been gifted beyond imagining, do I remember them with gratitude for all that they have given me?
Today let us remember and pray with gratitude for all our families and all those people who have played a vital role in our lives and for the manifold gifts they have bestowed on us.