In our gospel today, Matthew 1:1-17, we hear the famous genealogy narrative of Jesus. (I must admit that I dread when I have to read this Gospel in Church!) Matthew is telling the family history of Jesus, clearly showing that he is a descendant of David and Abraham.
Jewish genealogy usually only lists the males. Matthew however lists four women: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bathsheba. These women were either foreigners or married to foreigners. They also had some questionable behavior as well.
The diversity and inclusion movement of our time isn’t new. Matthew was showing us that Jesus’ mission was all about diversity and inclusion over 2000 years ago. He didn’t come for just the Jewish males; his Kingdom was for everyone, including women, gentiles, and foreigners. They didn’t have to be perfect either. Jesus shows us a pattern of inviting less than perfect people to advance his mission. That gives me hope that I have a role in his mission as well!
De Colores, Deacon Kevin
