Matthew mentions women in his genealogy. It is interesting to look at the biblical history of these women, for each one draws attention to an occasion on which God was seen to act outside the normal expectations of man to carry out His will. The climax comes with Mary of whom was born Jesus.

Mary was in God's plan from the very beginning, chosen and foretold from the moment He created Adam and Eve. She played a part in our salvation. It was through her that the Son of God truly came into our history. Mary is the second Eve, through whom life came, as death came through the first Eve. She is "all holy and free from every stain of sin." Her assent was required for the incarnation and having said 'Yes', Mary devoted herself totally to being the handmaid of the Lord. Yes, she teaches us how to search for nothing other than to know and to do the will of God. Blessed are we if we follow her example of devotion and total openness to the will of God. Therefore, let us ask Mary to pray for us and guide us.