Genesis 37-38

“She is more righteous than I” (38:26). Jacob openly favored Joseph (37:3), and the brothers’ hatred and resentment inevitably led to violence (37:5). Judah, meant to be a leader, had two sons who were so evil and selfish that God put them to death (38:7,10). Judah himself resisted doing what was “righteous” until his hand was forced by the neglected widow, Tamar. But through this very ordinary, sinful family, God was at work for His good purposes, revealing Himself to the world.

“Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar ...” (Matt 1:3). Matthew points out Tamar in the genealogy of Jesus, reminding us that Jesus knows the depths of human failure, shame, and brokenness. He became like us, to save and heal us.