Matthew begins with an introduction of Jesus as the son of David. From there, he goes straight into genealogy. Since Jesus is son of David, it should not surprise us that David is mentioned more than anyone else before the genealogy finishes at verse seventeen. It is of interest to us that although David had several sons, Matthew states “and to David was born Solomon.” Then before we finish, we discover that Jesus is born in the lineage of David.
One of the things that appears obvious during all of this is that God had a plan. He was in control from the start. He is sovereign over time and over generations. Since God is sovereign over generations we can find encouragement in the present and future. Knowing that should prevent us from making time the enemy. Yet, as Bruce Chilton points out in Redeeming Time “time has become our greatest common constraint.”
He goes on to say that “unfilled time is a threat.” Under that threat, many claim to be depressed. Chilton claims that depression is the mirror image of busy-ness. That each moment is to be dreaded. I am inclined to agree. Whether you choose to agree or not, you will likely agree that depression is as much a trademark of this post modern world as is its busy-ness and business.
Lent may not be a cure for busy-ness or depression, but it is a reminder that time is meant to be more than a constraining force. More than a tool to keep you on schedule. Time is a context for meaning. Lent reminds us that today may remember yesterday, yet today prepares us for tomorrow. Time encourages purpose. Time is where we are. It is where we have been and where we will be. More importantly, as Matthew reminds us, it is where God is, where he has been and where he will be.
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