Image: Pablo Picasso, La Soupe
The story continues...
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. Luke 2: 1-5
Reflection
It was Jesus’ ancestry that qualified him to be the messiah, for he was a descendant of King David. This was a gift his ancestors gave him. Jesus both accepts his heritage and is open to a new kind of kinship with those who do the will of his heavenly father. We all have ancestors, people who came before us and whose lives have influenced our lives, perhaps in many ways we are not aware of.
Action
Bring to mind particular gifts that you have been given by previous generations of your family or other older people whom you have known – not necessarily objects, perhaps personal qualities, time together or shared experiences? Give thanks for these. Now picture people who are your descendants or young people whom you know, people whose lives you are involved with...whatgifts may you be being called to offer them?
Closing blessing
You may want to bless those who have gone before you and those who are coming after you by saying this ancient Hebrew blessing to them in your imagination.. The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Amen Numbers 6:24-26
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