Matthew's Gospel is all about fulfillment. He uses that word more than any other Gospel writer and quotes the Old Testament 54 times, nearly double the others, to make one big point: Jesus is the Messiah Israel was waiting for and the Savior for everyone. He shows this two main ways. First, through prophecies coming true in Jesus. Second, through patterns where people or events in the Old Testament point forward to Him. And don't miss the bookends. Matthew opens (1:23) and closes (28:20) with the same promise, "I am with you always." That's the heart of it. Jesus is with you.

The first chapter of Matthew tells us about Jesus’ genealogy and His birth. Jesus’ birth changed our world forever. The thin veil between Heaven and Earth was pulled back, and God came near. Jesus’ Name literally means, “Salvation.” There is salvation for every person because of the grace we receive in Jesus. We have a personal God who loves us and who is near to us. Immanuel, “God with us.” Regardless of where you are or what you are going through, know that God is with you and He is for you. Jesus is here, and you are loved.

God has a plan for your life. We are all a part of God’s Redemptive Story. God created you and put you here at this time in History. As we embark on this journey through the Gospel of Matthew today, we see how everything in History is leading up to Jesus. Our lives and our stories are transformed in Him. If you do not yet know Jesus, then make today the day that changes your life forever. And, if you are a follower of Jesus, then let’s dive deeper into His Word and pass Him on to generations to come. Let’s leave a legacy for Christ and Christ alone.