Matthew 1:1-17

The start of Matthew’s gospel lays out the family tree of Jesus, descended through King David from Abraham. It is clearly to show how despite the turmoil that the Israelites faced throughout biblical history, God was at work and guiding them through the generations.

Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.
Matthew 1:17

The history of God’s people was messy, seemingly chaotic and they faced persecution, exile and attack from virtually all their neighbours. Yet God was still with them.

There are millions of people scattered across the world today. 85% of refugees live in developing countries; looking for safety and a new place to call home.

As Christians, we know that God cares for each of these people – regardless of their background.

Today, GET INVOLVED in two things;

• Write a Christmas card to a local migrant family and post it through their door; show them a little bit of care
• Pray with us!

Prayer points

Praise God for the heritage and fulfilled promise of Jesus, our Saviour

Thank God that Jesus came to bless all nations and generations; to restore them to righteousness by his sacrifice

Pray to God that people from all backgrounds would come to recognise Jesus; that Christians who are forcibly displaced and seeking shelter as refugees or asylum seekers would be assured that God is working through the turmoil.

What else can I do?