Genealogies

Genealogies are not known for their captivating syntax. Perhaps knowing some of the people can make them compelling, but for the most part, I find them challenging to read. They are challenging not because they are hard to understand but rather hard to sustain my attention through dozens of names of people I don’t know.

And yet the Bible has many genealogies. After the exiles, genealogies helped establish who could be in the priesthood. In Matthew, we see Jesus’s lineage traced back to Judah. In Genesis, the genealogies help us see the passing of time and people. These are all logical reasons, but I was struck with another when reading Chronicles the other day: There is a stark contrast between my own human ineptitude and God’s detailed care.

I struggle even reading these names.

God knows and remembers them.

I struggle thinking of others.

God knows the hairs on their heads as well as the burdens of their hearts.

Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12:7

When we read the genealogies, we may struggle. But when the Lord lists them, he knows each one, remembers each one, and loves each one. This is both a reassuring thought and a humbling one. The One who made the stars knows their names, but he also knows mine. The One who formed the seas remembers each soul he formed from Eden until the end of time. We worship an awesome and caring God.

Can a woman forget her nursing child,
that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?
Even these may forget,
yet I will not forget you.
Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands

Is 49:15-16

But now thus says the Lord,
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine. Is 43:1

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