Click here for Matthew 1 audio:
Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.
Matthew begins his Gospel by showing that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah. The genealogy connects Jesus to both Abraham and David, proving He is the fulfillment of God’s promises (vv. 1–17; cf. Gen. 12:1–3; 2 Sam. 7:12–16). But Jesus’s family tree is full of surprises—Gentiles, sinners, and the unexpected. His arrival is good news for all people, not just the powerful or perfect.
Then Matthew tells us how Jesus was born. Mary became pregnant by the power of the Holy Spirit, not by natural means (v. 18). Joseph planned to quietly end their engagement, but an angel appeared and told him not to be afraid (vv. 19–21). The child would be named Jesus because He would save His people from their sins (v. 21). He would also be called Immanuel, which means “God with us” (v. 23; cf. Isa. 7:14). Joseph obeyed, and Jesus was born just as God had planned (vv. 24–25).
🌀 Reflection:
Even in the hard parts of your story, God is at work. How does seeing Jesus’ family tree remind you that God uses broken people to carry out His perfect plan?
💬 Mission Challenge:
Share with someone today how Jesus’ name means “the Lord saves.” Ask them if they know why He came—and gently share the good news that He came to save us.
Just Keith Harris 
1 Comment