The Heavenly Family Tree of Jesus

The Heavenly Family Tree of Jesus is a simple thought Lectionary reflection for Christmas Day from John 1:1-14 that shows the heavenly family tree of  Jesus.

December 25, 2015 Year C – Christmas Day

John 1:1-14

Today people will look at their Christmas tree and see presents underneath. Families will come together and open presents under the tree. Just as there are Christmas trees, there are family trees.

Family trees are genealogies. A family tree lists the ancestors of a person. Matthew 1:1-17 lists the royal family tree of Jesus through the line of Joseph. Luke 3:23-38 lists the human family tree of Jesus through Mary. John 1:1-14 lists the divine family tree of Jesus since God is His Father.

Jesus has existed in eternity past with God the Father. He and the Father were One (John 1:1). Jesus co-created the universe with God the Father (John 1:2-3). Jesus is the way to light and life (John 1:4-5). Since God is light, Jesus is also light. Jesus points us to God, as John the Baptist told us (John 1:6-9).

Christmas reveals to us that even though Jesus came into the world (the Word became flesh – John 1:14). Yet, not everyone noticed his divine family tree (John 1:10-13).

Just because Jesus had divine family prodigy, it did not mean that the world system and culture noticed. The same is true today. Not everyone realizes that Jesus is God’s Son. They don’t see the divine connection with Christmas. As Christians, we need to show people that Christmas is more than just about gifts, decorations, trees, candy, cookies, and music. Christmas is about God becoming flesh and being with us (John 1:14). Many of us will sit around and share family history together this Christmas. Let’s remember to share Jesus’ family history as well.

Let us take this Christmas season and share this special message with others.

Prayer: God, help me share how important your family tree is to my family.