Generations

In this third week of Advent, with the rose candle of joy burning in our Advent wreaths, our liturgical readings focus more on the actual birth of Jesus, now that we've heard the promising prophecies of a Messiah and a new age.  St. Matthew gives us the genealogy of Jesus in three segments of 14, ending with "Jacob, the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ." (Mt 1:17).  Family histories were very important in ancient tribal culture and still are among Native Americans and Africans.  It is important to know WHO you are marrying, to avoid marrying relatives who might be too close, and also to become aware of the traditions and wisdom accumulated by the families. 
Today, the first of a series of Antiphons used at Vespers this week, referred to as the "O" Antiphons, addresses Jesus as "Wisdom coming forth from the mouth of the Most High, reaching from end to end, and sweetly ordering all things" and begs him to "come and teach us the way of prudence."  Jesus. divinely the Son of God, but also the heir of generations of family wisdom, certainly has something  to teach us.  May we follow him prudently along the path of knowledge, good order and wisdom.
Bro. Rene