You may be surprised to know that the family tree of Jesus Christ was one of the most messed-up family trees of all time. And if you are a child of God it is now your family tree.
Recorded for us in Matthew 1 and Luke 3, it includes prostitutes, cheats, adulterers, liars, and even a murderer. Yet we have to remember that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and that includes genealogies. And in the genealogy of Jesus, the grace of God is on display.
Normally, Jewish genealogies did not include women. But in Matthew’s genealogy, we find five: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and of course, Mary. What is fascinating about these women in the most exclusive genealogy in history is that several of them were immoral. This reminds us that Jesus came to heal broken lives and to restore shattered hopes.
The word “redeem” used in Galatians 4:4-5 means to buy out of a slave market. This term would have been readily understood by people living in the first century, because slavery was still in practice.
Jesus has redeemed us, he purchased us with his blood, and His resurrection has given us our freedom. That is what Jesus did for us. God gives second chances. And He can redeem the mess we make of our lives. All you have to do is ask Him in.
Thank God for His Grace!
Rev Ran 🙂