Deacon Victor Parrott

Jeremiah 1:5 (NRSV)

⁵ “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Beauty for Ashes 

Genealogy has become the interest of some for various reasons. African Americans might employ it to graft limbs to a family tree which was pruned without regard for the health of the tree during the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. Adoptees might find genealogy useful in identifying the trees of their biological families. Genealogy might also be beneficial for those who would like to confirm relationships to a famous person, past or present. Regardless of the reasons, in many cases, the impetus for genealogical research is the need for self-identity, self-worth or a desire to belong. Undoubtedly, these are all valid motivations. Nevertheless, there is a word for those who may never be able to establish a family tree and the kinship that it represents.  

God has said that He knew us before He formed us. In other words, before we had bodies or biological families, God had given us identities. God defined us. Additionally, God established our worth and set us apart before we were born. God valued us. Lastly, God gave us a purpose as part of the human family. God assigned us. Despite biological family trees that may be missing limbs or have unverifiable roots, God has already included us as branches of the divine family tree. Defined. Valued. Assigned. On this day, reflect on life as a part of the family of God.  

Prayer 

Almighty God, thank you for the sense of identity, worth and belonging that comes from being a part of your family. Amen.

Thought for the day 

We are all a part of God’s family tree.