Tfd 9-8-17
Family Reunions
Matthew 1:17
Thus the total number of generations from Abraham to David is fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile, fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Messiah, fourteen generations.
Summertime is a traditionally a time for family reunions. I went to one this year and I know other staff went to theirs as well. When there are little ones and even teenagers, the parents will explain before the reunion, who is related to whom and how they are related. Then everyone comes together hopefully in love to celebrate their relationship and memories. One of the best parts is when the older family members get together and other family member gather around and listen to stories of the past, especially those of long ago generations. Sometimes there are often secrets or "skeletons" that are only whispered about things that might have happened in the past. But in the end, it's all about love and support of one another.
Today the Church celebrates the birthday of Mary, officially the Feast day of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The readings today all recount Mary's story as it relates to the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. Today's reading from the Gospel of Matthew is known as the genealogy reading or the "begats." So and so begat so and so and on and on it goes. On the surface it doesn't mean much, but there's more to it. Part of it shows a real history of Jesus in that he was a real man and really God all in one…"The Great Mystery," if you will. It shows proof that Jesus really existed. In that lineage, there were people that were great, people that were unassuming, and people that really messed up. But they were important in that it showed their human weakness and frailties. The Bible is like a family tree for Jesus and God's relationship with man throughout the centuries. That family tree continues today in our relationship with God, the Father of our families and Jesus, his son. But the family unit of today is more challenged than ever before. It is being torn apart. Make it a point today to pray for all families and show love and appreciation for those closest to you.
