January 14th, 2016

Over a decade ago, I completed my Master's of Theological Studies at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington DC.  The brilliant theologians in the Biblical Studies department opened my eyes to a complex world of story.  Since then, I have enjoyed reading ancient Hebrew and Christian stories with a solid understanding that the context is as much of a storyteller as the story itself.

One thing I learned is the value of genealogy.  The ancient Hebrew/Jewish people valued their genealogies as a form of eternal life.  Today, the concept of afterlife if embedded into our culture.  Then, there was no such thing as life beyond death.  One's everlasting life came through their lineage.  

Normally, women were not included in the patriarchal lineage.  Yet the writer of the gospel of Matthew saw it wise to include five women.  These women were strong and willing to take risks.  One could even say that these women were willing to stain their reputations to do what was right.  Each woman's story is a beautiful story and a lens into a complicated world of survival.  Can you name the five women?  Take a close look at the gospel of Matthew, chapter one and highlight their names.  It is exciting to see them.

Starting in February 2016, I will begin to offer online classes and a 5-week study on the Women of Matthew's Genealogy will be among the first.  If you would like to join one of these offerings, check out the classes page and learn more about the program.  It would be an honor to journey with you through these stories.