There’s a woman in that Genealogy!
Jessica Curbis
In today’s Gospel, Matthew introduces us to Jesus by telling us who he is related to. If you were able to keep your eyes from swirling together at the mix of names, some familiar and some not, then perhaps you noticed the five women that are named within the Genealogy of Jesus. In case you were wondering, no, this was not a common practice. Women were not included in genealogies because, well, patriarchal society and all. That means these women are incredibly significant. If we consider these women’s stories briefly, perhaps we can discover why.
First, Tamar. When her husband dies, Tamar makes sure her place in her family is secure. She shows her loyalty to the family and is assertive in her actions when she is ignored. You can read her full story in Genesis 38.
Then, Rahab. She goes against the norm and shows loyalty to God by protecting Joshua and the Israelites. You can read her story in Joshua 2 & 6.
Then, Ruth, also goes against the norm and shows loyalty to her mother-in-law, and ensures her place in her family. Check out her short, but meaningful story in her book, Ruth.
Then, the wife of Uriah, or Bethsheba, who is referred to but curiously not named. She loses a son because of the sins of his father, David. She knows pain and grief, like all of these women before her. But she also knows power as a queen and, later, a mother to Solomon, the wisest king of Israel. You can read her story in 2 Samuel and 1 Kings.
And finally Mary, Theotokos, who needs no introduction.
In these women, we can see examples of real loss and sadness but also amazing courage and loyalty. Women who were not afraid to upset the status quo. The recognition of these women in the genealogy of Jesus offer themselves as examples to us. They teach us how to live. But, they also offer themselves to us as companions on our journeys.
If you are unfamiliar with any of these women’s stories, I would invite you to take an extra few minutes with scripture today to read (or reread!) one, or all, of their stories. Then, perhaps, consider, as you reflect today on your Advent journey, how you can live more like these women in your own life today.
We aren’t alone on the journey. These women in the Genealogy, in the Bible, and throughout our Christian history are walking in front of us, teaching us the way, next to us, sharing in our pain and joy, and behind us, watching in awe as we make our own moves.
Jessica grew up attending church with her devoted Hispanic mother. This was the catalyst that started her journey of faith. By the time she entered high school, she found a curiosity and joy for the faith that led her to participate in Peacebuilders Initiative, a program that introduced theology and ministry to high school students, and eventually heard her call to pursue and receive a Master of Divinity from Catholic Theological Union. She is passionate about social justice, interreligious dialogue,, care for creation, scripture, preaching, and women's roles in the Church. Jessica currently accompanies young women at an all girls high school and is an adjunct college professor. She can often be found reading or crocheting in her spare time.
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