Reflection for Thursday, Dec. 17

Reading 1: GN 49:2, 8-10

Jacob (Israel) appoints Judah as the next leader

Psalm: PS 72:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 17

Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace forever 

Gospel: MT 1:1-17

Jesus lineage

Today’s gospel is one that may often be overlooked: it is the family lineage from Abraham all the way to Jesus, listing dozens of generations. This list may be difficult for us to understand or gather significant meaning from without strong historical and liturgical background; but, with additional context from the first reading and the psalm, we can start to grasp the significance that this held for the original audience.

Jacob (also known as Israel), who was the grandson of Abraham, is seen in the first reading appointing his son, Jacob, as the next leader of his people. The declaration in the first reading is proclaimed with the lavish language of the strength of a leader, but the psalm (written by David, another descendant of Abraham) sums up the significance of what a great leader who venerates God (such as the leaders of this lineage) can do for his people.

The lineage is a declaration of the royalty of Jesus and what that means to his people: justice and peace.

Loving Lord Jesus, we praise you and honor you, King of kings. We pray for peace and justice in our hearts as we await your coming, so that we may become your peace and justice for all those around us. Amen.

Peter DePaola