Matthew’s genealogy moves through generation after generation of broken people, surprising names, and flawed kings. Then, at the very end, everything changes: “and Mary was the mother of Jesus, who is called the Messiah.” For 42 generations, the story had been built toward this moment. As we head into a New Year, we remember that all the sin, shame, and struggle carried through that family line led to a baby born in Bethlehem—God with us. Worship not only the child in the manger but the Savior on the throne and take your place in the family story He came to write.

 

Put It into Practice: Begin each day by thanking God that you are wanted, chosen, and loved. Remember that in His family, your past doesn’t define you  His grace does. Be on the lookout for whom the Lord may want you to share this message. 

 

Day 1 Matthew 1:12–25

Reflect: Why does Matthew end his genealogy by focusing on Mary instead of Joseph? How do you relate to Joseph? How does the virgin birth highlight both the humanity and divinity of Jesus? 

Apply: When have you experienced or heard of “divine intervention” taking place?  Spend time thanking God that His plans are not dependent on your perfection — but on His faithfulness.

Pray: I thank You, Father, for sending Jesus, the promised Savior. I pray for humble obedience like that of Mary and Joseph, to trust Your plan even when it is hard to understand. Help me to live a life in accordance with Your will, bringing Your light and love to others.

 

Day 2 2 Samuel 9:1-13

Reflect: What part of this story speaks loudest to you? What strikes you about David’s treatment of Mephibosheth? How does this story reflect the heart of Jesus toward sinners?  

Apply: Identify one area where you feel unworthy of God’s love — and bring it honestly before Him. Who else do you know that feels unworthy? How can you help them to know Jesus’ heart?

Pray: Lord, I am grateful that You have brought me to Your table of salvation by grace. I ask that You use me to extend Your kindness to others, especially those who may be overlooked by others.

 

Day 3 Galatians 3:26-29

Reflect: What does it mean to be a “child of God” through faith in Jesus? How does the unity described display the power of the gospel? How does this change the way you see your identity?

Apply: What false label have you accepted? Replace it or a lie you’ve believed with this truth: “I am God’s child.” Thank God that in His family, your past doesn’t define you — His grace does.

Pray: Heavenly Father, Thank You for making me Your child through faith in Christ. Help me to see others as You see – as one in Christ. May I honor the promises made to Abraham by living with faith and humility, recognizing my true inheritance is in You and through Christ’s sacrifice.

 

Day 4 Ephesians 1:4-6

Reflect: What do these verses reveal about God’s heart and purpose in adopting you into His family? What does it mean that this adoption is “through Jesus Christ”?

Apply: How does knowing you were “chosen in love” affect your view of yourself and others? Show grace to someone this week, not because they’ve earned it, but because you’ve freely received it.

Pray:  God, thank You for choosing me in Christ before the creation of the world, making me holy and blameless in Your sight. Help me to live in a way that brings You glory and honor.

 

Day 5 Revelation 19:6–9

Reflect: What images or emotions come to mind as you picture this heavenly celebration? How does this vision complete the story of Matthew’s genealogy and Jesus’ arrival?

Apply: What does this promise say about God’s ultimate desire for a relationship with His people? What steps can you take or disciplines to include this year to deepen your relationship with Christ? 

Pray: Abba, thank You for making me ready to be Your bride. I long for the day to be united with You!