12 Days of God's Character: The Christmas StorySample

Day 2: Honoring All People

One of the most overlooked parts of the Christmas story is Matthew 1:1-17. What do these 17 verses hold that is so overlooked? The genealogy of Jesus!

The genealogy often feels unimportant - after all, it’s just a long list of names from years and years ago. And sure, some of the names are notable (such as Abraham or David) - but for the most part, it just feels unknown and too confusing to follow.

While, yes, most of those things are true, there is actually so much more for us to glean from those 17 verses that can guide our Christmas season for the better.

Honor! Honor is what these 17 verses are full of - which is a beautiful picture of God’s character and expectation for us around the Christmas season. Not only does He want His son to be honored rightly as the Savior of the World - but He also wants us to honor one another well. He honors His children well, as seen in this list of names, and we can do the same!!

During this time period - you were defined by your genealogy. And although names such as “Abraham” and “David” would have been a bit of a flex for Jesus - names like Rahab, the prostitute - or Solomon’s mother, called “Uriah’s wife” here, are less than helpful for the reputation of Jesus. Yet, by the Lord choosing to specifically identify these men and women - not only is He showing His promise to Abraham, but FURTHER, God honors His children.

In fact, women were never even included in genealogies, yet God chose to honor their sacrifices. The opening 17 verses of Matthew aren’t just a genealogy to explain Jesus’ legitimacy - but more than that, they honor His people.

So, that being said, we have a challenge for you today.

Take a moment to pray this prayer:

Lord, would you reveal to me, someone to honor today? Whether it’s adding them to my Christmas gift list or texting them an encouraging message - allow me to honor your children well. I lift this moment of silence to you, have your way. Amen

That’s RIGHT!! We challenge you to set a 1 minute timer (if you can) and think through who you could honor well today. Whether it’s a family member, a close friend, or a nemesis of yours - walk in obedience! Don’t hesitate! Go and honor them.

Be blessed, friend. Amen.