December 18
Matthew's account of Jesus's birth is importantly framed by that which directly precedes it. The genealogy of Christ establishes Jesus as a son of David, the son of Abraham: "Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers…" and so on (Matthew 1:1-17). Theologian Herbert McCabe, OP, makes an insight pertinent to us this Advent when darkness and human failing seem ever-present. McCabe observes the sordid nature of Jesus's lineage by writing an "annotated genealogy," recounting generational stories of sin and brokenness. *
What is McCabe's point? That as we think about Jesus's birth, we remember that "he belonged to a family of murderers, cheats, cowards, adulterers, and liars — he belonged to us and came to help us, no wonder he came to a bad end, and gave us some hope."
The ministry of Catholic health care brings us close to the brokenness of the world in those for whom we care, in our health care system, and in ourselves. This is where God's work has always been done. Certainly, there is hope in that — a joyful hope — as we await the birth of our savior.
John Hardt, Ph.D., Vice Dean, Professional Formation
Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine
*Herbert McCabe, OP. “The Genealogy of Christ” in God Matters 246-49. Templegate, 1991.
Pause
Where in your own life do you see God's work of hope being done?
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.