Genesis 49:2, 8-10 / Matthew 1:1-17
Today, the 17th December begins a special period of the Advent season. From today till the 24th December (Mass in the morning) a different set of readings are used.
The emphasis in the liturgy of the Church (ie. Mass and Divine Office) is on the "O" Antiphons, dating back to the fourth century, one for each day until Christmas Eve.
These antiphons address Christ with Messianic titles, based on the Old Testament prophecies and how the people waited in hope for the coming of the Messiah.
In the gospel, we heard about the genealogy of Jesus Christ - three sums of generations and fourteen in each generation.
The purpose is to tell us that from Abraham, the father of our faith, right down to Mary, the mother of the Church, the longing is for the Messiah and Saviour.
It also reminds us that through the generations, humankind had been shackled by sin and wickedness and is still is being tempted and lured by the devil to eternal damnation.
As we begin this special period of Advent, let us be still and prepare ourselves with prayer for the coming of the Saviour.
Let us acknowledge our sins and seek healing in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Let us ask for the grace of obedience so that our hearts will be open to Jesus Christ.