Matthew continues to highlight the messy ancestry in Jesus’ genealogy. He names Ruth, a Moabite whose people descended from an incestuous relationship, reminding us that even those considered outsiders or accidents are fully included in God’s plan. When he presents Solomon, he mentions that his mother was “Uriah’s wife,” reminding everyone of his father David’s adultery and his orchestrated murder. He wants us to know that Jesus came not in spite of sinners but through them.

 

Put It into Practice: Who in your life might feel “too far gone” for God’s love? Reach out with encouragement or prayer. Share what you’re learning: Matthew’s genealogy is not a list of perfect people — it’s a record of God’s grace.

 

Day 1 Matthew 1:1–6; Ruth 4:1-22

Reflect: Why is Ruth’s presence in Jesus’ family tree surprising? What does her story teach you about loyalty, faith, and God’s quiet work behind the scenes? What does it say about Boaz? 

Apply: Think of a time when God brought redemption out of a painful chapter in your life. How could you tell that story to encourage someone else? Have you encountered a “Ruth” in your life? 

Pray: Thank You, God, for Your providence, faithfulness, and the hope of a redeemer. I ask You to work through me to be a source of restoration and blessing for those around me.

 

Day 2 2 Samuel 12:1-14; 2 Samuel 12:24

Reflect: Why do you think Matthew intentionally included this scandal in Jesus’ lineage? What does David’s confrontation with Nathan teach about repentance and accountability?

Apply: How do you see God’s grace even in the consequences of David’s sin? Where do you need to stop “managing outcomes” and start confessing honestly before God?

Pray: Merciful God, I recognize my sinful nature, and I ask You to create a clean heart in me. I ask that You transform my inner self to align with Your will, and for the Holy Spirit to lead and guide my actions.

 

Day 3 1 Kings 11:1-13

Reflect: What caused Solomon to drift from God despite his wisdom and success? What might Solomon’s downfall teach us about dependence and devotion? What do you learn about God here?

Apply: Examine one area of your life where your heart may be divided — where compromise is creeping in. How does compromise often begin in small, subtle ways? How do you stop it?

Pray: Almighty God, I pray for Your guidance in keeping my heart wholly devoted to You. In this world, I see how easy it is to be led astray. Forgive me for wavering and give me wisdom and courage to demolish anything that keeps me from complete obedience.

 

Day 4 Acts 8:26–40

Reflect: How does this story echo the inclusion of people like Ruth, Rahab, and Bathsheba in Jesus’ family line? What do you notice about the way the Spirit guides Philip to the eunuch?

Apply: What does this teach you about God’s view of people society might overlook or exclude? Ask God to open your eyes to someone on the margins who needs encouragement or inclusion.

Pray: Lord, I pray for boldness to obey Your leading, like Philip, and for an open and receptive heart to receive Your Word, like the Ethiopian eunuch. Help me to be saturated by Your Spirit so I may go in joy to share Your gospel.

 

Day 5 Luke 8:1-3

Reflect: What do these women’s actions and identities reveal about how Jesus valued and included those overlooked? How does this text echo the same truth Matthew highlighted in his genealogy?

Apply: What kind of community does Jesus create through His mercy? How have all these texts helped you see people in your circle differently? Is there someone you need to invite to your table?  

Pray:  Thank You, God, for all the examples of whom You called – and are calling – to follow You. I pray that You fill me with courage and strength to be an example to others.