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.
As was typical in Paul’s letters, he began this one with a greeting, a thanksgiving, and a prayer. In these, he didn’t waste any...
When we fulfill the roles assigned to us by God, both children and parents end up happier.
In Jonah 2, we take a break from the narrative to read a poem of thanksgiving that Jonah prayed when he was detained for...