Our first reading is admittedly a bit difficult to understand. We have God telling us that the smallest, those rejected, those not in the clans will provide a ruler with ties and ancient origins. It was important in those times to trace back lineage and heritage, especially to the 12 tribes of Israel. But God wasn’t concerned with man’s law or expectations. I have realized many times in my life that

The past two years have been difficult and trying for all of us. Who has not suffered from this pandemic? There are some among us who have lost family members and friends to the disease. Some were afflicted by the virus and, by God’s grace, were healed. Many experienced economic difficulties, lost jobs, worked shorter hours, downsized or closed their business, incurred unplanned medical bills. Many more experienced fear, loneliness and isolation from family, friends and community.