It is 17th December 2016. The readings are from Genesis 49:2, 9-10; and the Gospel from Matthew 1:1-17. The first reading presents us with the future glory of Israel lies hidden in the arrival of Messiah. It was not only a blessing but a prophecy from Jacob to all his sons. “The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and the obedience of the peoples is his.” (Gen.49:10). God is faithful to God’s covenant and promises to provide us with the Messiah who redeems God’s people from the slavery of sins and evil. The responsorial Psalm praises, “In his days justice shall flourish and peace till the moon fails.” (Ps.71:7). The Gospel presents us with the Family Tree of Jesus. Jesus having the lineage from Abraham leading to show that Judah is one of the fore-fathers of Jesus. Hence, Jesus is the one to whom the sceptre belongs rightfully. Jesus is the king who rules the people with God’s peace. St. Matthew tries to show us that God had the intention right from the very beginning to save the fallen humanity using all these 42 people through God’s only beloved Son Jesus Christ. All types of people are in the genealogy of Jesus. Even amidst human sinfulness and frailty, God could bring salvation. God chose the weak, the lowly and the unknown and ordinary people of society to be God’s instruments of salvation. We need to trust God at all times that God will never forget us howsoever the humanity distanced itself from an ever-loving God. May you have a good day.