If genealogies are not the most engaging reading, why would Matthew begin his history of Jesus with one in Matthew 1:1-17? Actually, genealogies can be very engaging if we find in them connections with our story. Because Matthew wanted to connect Jesus with Jewish people, he emphasized Jesus’ descent from the patriarch Abraham and from King David. At the same time, he included some fascinating details that connect Jesus not only with Jewish people but with all of us.
Jesus combined a warning of judgment with a demonstration of the liberating power of the kingdom of God.
While David used desperate and even deceptive means of escape, God provided for him because of his grace and faithfulness.
During a meal with his disciples in John 13:1-17, Jesus did something that shattered social norms. He dressed like a slave and performed a...