S) "17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations."
Matthew 1:17 (NASB)
O) The book of Matthew begins by breaking down the genealogy of Jesus, from Abraham through the Messiah. Then, the above verse summarizes it, while highlighting the symmetry of the generations that separated Abraham and Jesus Christ. Abraham received the promise, that through his seed, every nation on the planet would be blessed. Jesus Christ was and is the manifestation of that promise.
[It's worth noting that there are a few names missing from this list. It is unclear why they were omitted, and there seems to be some debate. Even still, this is emphasizing that the coming of Jesus was according to plan, not happenstance.]
A) The pattern that God used, here, of 14+14+14 might have deeper meanings, I just don't know. What I do see, however, is a simple beauty to God's order. The LORD is not a random God, but orderly in His plans. He has a purpose for all of His ways. It is not up to me to discover all of the reasons why He plans things the way He does, but I should determine to recognize the beauty of His ways.
P) Father, Your math is impeccable. I may never know why You chose fourteen generations between Abraham and David, then the same from David to the Exile, and again from the Exile to Jesus, but I recognize its simple beauty. I know You also have orderly plans for my life. I know that You have perfect timing in mind for events that are coming my way. If it is Your will, then open my eyes and ears, to see these things coming, that I might know what my role is in Your plans. In the meantime, I will continue to worship You for all of Your mysterious ways, Father God. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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