What's in a Name?

Read

Genesis 36:1-431 Chronicles 1:35-2:2

Think

Genesis 36:1, “This is the account of the descendants of Esau…”You’re probably feeling less than inspired by today’s reading — all genealogy! And you might be thinking, “Why do I need to read through list after list of names I can’t even pronounce?” Well, you’re not alone! However, although it may seem unimportant to us, it is important to God. And, believe it or not, we can be inspired by these foreign names!Genealogy is important for the following reasons:

• It shows us that God cares about history and the individual people and families who are a part of it.
• It proves biblical prophecy and helps confirm biblical reliability.
• It determines who could serve in certain roles and shows that God can use imperfect people for His purposes.
• And, most importantly, Jesus’ genealogy is evidence that God has been working throughout all of history to provide a Savior for us.

An interesting fact is that biblical genealogy ends in the first chapter of the New Testament (Matthew 1). Why? Because once Jesus entered the scene, lived righteously, died sacrificially, and rose bodily, all who believe in Him can enter God’s family. No matter our family of origin, every sinner is given the opportunity to turn towards Christ and leave their past behind. How great is that!

Act

Pray

Thank You, Lord, for this reminder that every life is significant — even mine — and that You came because You loved each one of us enough to die for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.