The Wired Word for 10272024 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 10/27/2024 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article1.be68295a7e40.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 10/27/2024 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#ChristopherColumbus, #SephardicJew, #ReligiousIdentity, #DNAAnalysis] Author: [The Wired Word Team] Source: [The Wired Word, Week of October 27, 2024] Reference: [Link to article not provided] date created: 2024-10-24 11:30 --- # Title: DNA Analysis Reveals Christopher Columbus Was of Sephardic Jewish Descent ## Table of Contents: - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#-notes) - [📖 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment](#-deib-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-belonging-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) ## 📝 Summary: Recent DNA analysis has revealed that Christopher Columbus, historically believed to be of Genoese origin, was in fact of Sephardic Jewish descent. This discovery sheds light on his potential crypto-Jewish identity and the broader context of religious conversion and persecution in Spain. While Columbus was a practicing Catholic, these findings suggest his family converted to Catholicism to avoid persecution during the Spanish Inquisition. This news connects to the shared Abrahamic heritage of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, highlighting how religious ancestry influences faith and identity. ## 📖 Main Content: The revelation about Columbus' ancestry comes from a 22-year investigation led by forensic expert Miguel Lorente. His team compared DNA from Columbus’ remains in Seville Cathedral with those of known descendants, finding traits consistent with Jewish origins. This supports long-held suspicions that Columbus may have been a converso, a Jew who converted to Christianity to avoid persecution. These findings also reignite discussions about religious identity, ancestry, and the complex ties between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. ### 🗒️ Notes: - Columbus, known for his voyages to the Americas, has long been a subject of debate concerning his origins. - DNA tests show he likely had Jewish ancestry. - His family may have converted to Catholicism to avoid persecution during the Spanish Inquisition. - **Prominent discovery**: DNA findings add new layers to the ongoing historical analysis of Columbus' identity. - **Faith connections**: This ties into the shared Abrahamic heritage of Jews, Christians, and Muslims. ## 📖 References: - The Wired Word team (2024). *DNA Analysis Reveals Columbus Was a Jew*. ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: 1. The DNA evidence from Columbus’ remains suggests that his family, while outwardly Catholic, was of Sephardic Jewish descent, having converted to Christianity to escape religious persecution during the Spanish Inquisition. 2. This discovery aligns with the theory that Columbus came from a crypto-Jewish background, highlighting the interconnectedness of religious identities in the Abrahamic faiths. ## 📰 Newsletter: In a groundbreaking revelation, DNA analysis has confirmed that Christopher Columbus was of Sephardic Jewish descent. This discovery reopens historical debates about his origins and sheds light on the Jewish diaspora during the Spanish Inquisition. As Columbus' voyages shaped the world, this new understanding of his identity reminds us of the complex interwoven histories of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. For more on how religious ancestry impacts identity, check out our upcoming issue! ## ✅ Action Items: This article offers valuable insights into religious heritage and the implications of identity in the open-source world. As a Developer Advocate, the integration of diverse perspectives, whether in software development or community engagement, is crucial. This aligns with my ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity in tech communities, highlighting the need for transparent collaboration and shared values across global communities, akin to the shared heritage discussed in the article. ## 🧪 Hypotheses: 1. Religious ancestry, much like open-source principles, influences community structure and individual contributions. 2. Historical discoveries about influential figures like Columbus can change how communities reflect on identity and belonging. ### 📊 Methodology: - Study how religious and cultural identity impacts participation in global communities. - Survey community members on how shared heritage influences their sense of belonging. ### ❓ Questions: - How does the discovery of Columbus' Jewish ancestry change historical perceptions of his contributions? - In what ways can open-source communities incorporate diverse cultural perspectives to enrich collaboration? ### 🔮 Future Research: - Further studies on the role of crypto-Jewish figures in European history. - Research into how cultural and religious identities shape community leadership in modern open-source projects. ### 💡 Implications: The implications of discovering Columbus' Jewish ancestry may extend to how we think about the intersection of faith, identity, and leadership within global communities, including open-source ecosystems. ### 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: 1. **Visual Learners (Spatial)**: - **Present**: The article lacks diagrams or visual aids. - **Improve**: Infographics explaining the DNA analysis process would help visual learners. 2. **Aural Learners (Auditory-Musical)**: - **Improve**: Provide an audio version or summary for auditory learners. 3. **Verbal Learners (Linguistic)**: - **Present**: The content is rich in historical context and description, benefiting verbal learners. 4. **Physical Learners (Kinesthetic)**: - **Improve**: Introduce interactive elements like quizzes on religious ancestry and DNA analysis. 5. **Logical Learners (Mathematical)**: - **Present**: The analysis of DNA evidence and logical discussion of historical identities appeals to logical learners. 6. **Social Learners (Interpersonal)**: - **Present**: Discussions on faith and identity naturally encourage social reflection and group conversations. 7. **Solitary Learners (Intrapersonal)**: - **Improve**: Add reflection questions for solitary learners to ponder the intersection of faith and identity. 8. **Naturalistic Learners**: - **Improve**: Consider adding analogies connecting heritage and identity to nature-based cycles. ### 📊 Accessibility Assessment: - **Screen Reader Compatibility**: The article needs semantic HTML structure for better screen reader navigation. - **Improve**: Add alt-text to images (if any) and optimize layout for keyboard navigation. - **Contrast and Readability**: Ensure high contrast for readability. ### 🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment: - **Cultural Relevance**: The article discusses multiple religious backgrounds but could include more global perspectives. - **Improve**: Incorporate examples from non-Western historical contexts. - **Inclusive Language**: The language used is generally inclusive but could be enhanced with more specific gender-neutral terms. ### ✅ Logical validity: - **Sound Reasoning**: The analysis of Columbus' Jewish ancestry is well-supported by DNA evidence. - **Consistent Analogies**: Historical comparisons between religious identities and community contributions are valid and logical. ### 🔍 SEO Evaluation: 1. **Keywords**: - **Present**: "Christopher Columbus," "Sephardic Jew," "DNA analysis." - **Keyword Placement**: Keywords are present in the title, introduction, and main content. 2. **Meta Description**: - **Present**: Include a concise summary with relevant keywords. 3. **Headers (H1, H2, H3)**: - **Present**: Appropriate use of headers to structure content. 4. **Content Length**: - **Present**: The article is detailed enough for its subject. 5. **Internal and External Links**: - **Improve**: Include - Summary: A recent study has found that Christopher Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. Dear Class Members, A recent study has found that Christopher Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. This discovery gives *The Wired Word* an opportunity to reflect on how Judaism, Christianity and Islam claim a common ancestor in Abraham, and to explore how our faith heritage and our spiritual DNA help us to live faithful lives today. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **DNA Analysis Reveals Columbus Was a Jew*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of October 27, 2024** **In the News** Christopher Columbus was the 15th-century Italian explorer who opened the way for the European colonization of the Americas. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain supported his voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492, with the goals of finding a safer route to the East, along with gold, spices and converts to Christianity. Columbus completed four voyages across the Atlantic, funded by these Catholic monarchs, and he often wrote about converting all races to Christianity. Historian of science Darin Hayton writes that Columbus' "voyage westward seems to have been part of his efforts to bring Christianity to the peoples of the world, to save humans before Christ's Second Coming and Judgment Day." Now, Spanish scientists have announced that DNA analysis reveals that Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. This discovery comes after years of debate about the background of the explorer. Many historians have questioned the theory that Columbus came from Genoa, Italy, while others have suggested that he was a Spanish Jew or a Greek, or perhaps from a Basque, Portuguese or British background. These findings align with the theory of journalist and researcher Joan "Nito" Verdera, who had long advocated that Columbus was from a crypto-Jewish family and born on the Balearic Island of Ibiza. The DNA findings come from a 22-year investigation, led by a forensic expert named Miguel Lorente. The research team tested small samples of remains buried in the Seville Cathedral. This cathedral had traditionally been seen as the last resting place of Columbus, although there had been rival claims. According to *Reuters*, the researchers compared these samples with the DNA of relatives and descendants of Columbus. "We have DNA from Christopher Columbus, very partial, but sufficient. We have DNA from Hernando Colón, his son," Lorente said, in a program titled "Columbus DNA: The true origin," which aired on Spanish television earlier this month. "And both in the Y chromosome (male) and in the mitochondrial DNA (transmitted by the mother) of Hernando there are traits compatible with Jewish origin." Approximately 300,000 Jews lived in Spain before the Catholic Monarchs Isabella and Ferdinand ordered Jews and Muslims to convert to the Catholic faith or leave the country. Columbus (and his family before him) may have converted to Catholicism to avoid religious persecution. Many Jews and Muslims departed Spain during this period and settled around the world. The word Sephardic comes from the Hebrew word *sefarad*, which means "Spain." The historical record indicates that Columbus was a practicing Catholic. There is no proof that Columbus lived a Jewish life, "nor even as a crypto-Jew," said Jonathan Ray, professor of Jewish studies at Georgetown University, to *Jewish News Syndicate.* "Rather, it would seem to indicate that he was a *converso*, or New Christian as they are often called -- that is, a descendant of Iberian Jews who had converted to Christianity under duress during the century leading up to Spain's expulsion of the Jews in 1492. Some of these *conversos* remained steadfast to Judaism, albeit in secret, leaving Spain and Portugal to return to Judaism in other lands." Ori Soltes, former director of the B’nai B’rith Klutznick National Jewish Museum, said that "meticulous studies" by researcher Peter Dickson have shown that "Columbus was a child of his era and his bloodline mixed Spanish, Genoese and French strains -- indeed, more than just these three -- as well as intertwining Jewish and Christian strains." Although the birthplace of Columbus cannot be narrowed down to anything more specific than Western Europe, the Lorente-led study did determine that the remains in Seville Cathedral belong to Columbus. The explorer died in Spain in 1506, but wished to be buried on the island of Hispaniola, which is currently shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The remains of Columbus were taken to Hispaniola in 1542, and then a portion moved to Cuba in 1795 and finally transported to Seville in 1898. More on this story can be found at these links: [Columbus's Voyage was a Religious Journey.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA9QEq5qr9f5bcrV2tUBDuXyoi3Btqf8yJabOps7uHrMQr9SJjpDCh0fhBRGNq-2FMm-2Bt6ceuhLM04O1jT8InJGuCR16AgeQpUMtRGav9GFaG0JqlFDlaK7RFGxzXp3irVpQ-3D-3DaMfP_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YXUTYsY1fd9UWr6Vz55i5jK826c-2B1z7eRslX2AQzDBTNNH3d-2BesPwbZy5-2FDJPGDoEaXehmZ5omDGq-2Fqoqryp4u-2BkzcbLHrYWGIYNS5UYD2nDWKd31vgCxHyzTsniDwYQuPP2YBH9Ira3T8b-2B5Mk7aWver82VvD6g71luSCDVbNCxHpAS-2FaUNXJipV89LJzmksv2U6Iz6B-2BZxlbarVegyiaM-3D) [*Haverford College*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA9QEq5qr9f5bcrV2tUBDuXyoi3Btqf8yJabOps7uHrMQr9SJjpDCh0fhBRGNq-2FMm-2Bt6ceuhLM04O1jT8InJGuCR16AgeQpUMtRGav9GFaG0JqlFDlaK7RFGxzXp3irVpQ-3D-3DBlNw_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0Yco35-2ByPLVnDkHWAbLSwVehYfLsYaeIzHLOHJyVOjMk0VA71RZQm-2FwKxHy-2BrBDw9oOdn8cF2SlDhnWHWjJdfpnRbVGaFspJyZaxjBz2dQtP0bDhlWB-2B-2F2sdU5zcstklrhy4TH3jk-2Butdb3u5xLxTFNVfecIFdrdGpQFSQBcFZwt8pBrX6A0497aym-2BWAQfo8ZAgVODF3LNXFQDkU1tjlFRk-3D) [Columbus Was a Sephardic Jew From Western Europe, Study Finds,](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfJYlvlord4D6dVaBJf-2F9Dta6Ds79ohfxDPD2N-2BKWGcr-2FbqlHONRBaXA0OC9sPjYgO9uit7ok1WASkynUtAmdHlHLAak_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YRrhtJP1mxpKQdmgzrlj4dUPg0A-2FImKFmWSvCQkDhc-2FRXUze4AUV-2BUZFNPwLbrJmRQZRZyN4LaO7VV6bJIfq6wQYgY-2BQqPzSeKHz-2BLYsjXCuuYAS-2FCtJ6r5L5INS3Vye6Ba80TINdkePOTBBA34r0OPrkXoQJkYZjmxBlhTcuChVryGqs-2B0f-2FSvCUUwaEAUmys-2F-2BWF9R3PiCcbqrSba-2BdDY-3D) [*Reuters*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfJYlvlord4D6dVaBJf-2F9Dta6Ds79ohfxDPD2N-2BKWGcr-2FbqlHONRBaXA0OC9sPjYgO9uit7ok1WASkynUtAmdHlHkwy__-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YVxdYoLnBOSdJ1Ynuc7-2B-2FuYLr7cRGZL67KxK8iVeOQH48Q3PS6mb6D8xJQoKBwavsResgqqEHGwM4D4EbaLNhI81KP2yCF1fr23PxjmOZSmlZmd-2F8Q4BbasWuWnsWKIO5N6xH3eDDUJWtFRHJ3S6cJzt1KHzvKPpcLXghijH-2Bl0Q668jUkFp3aDXM-2BjihO48PX3WWyFsrhPigmIsF1H9Wb0-3D) [Experts Advise Caution About Report Christopher Columbus Was Jewish.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDykDiCZhPSG-2Bx39Rjxrok3m7HMxWhrmnDMlh6FG2uApllCjT0Po0xDx1vUDRQmaGcGUUkRLQOBjYmhtNDuj8bJvEqYd-2FwpJSLQqZWU0DVJbmUbDu-2FAp0C1mJT8KFcKyXA-3D-3Dk-uX_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YTyTlyf46OG858lYqnq-2BDq-2BgDAGyX14fQmwoH0PHBar9mut6mFgPn7q1fE7BLvSUfpMMCQsjp7uuPIIiFJjNxB6pufKNKepTwK-2FCAr6Ktdyz-2F-2B2PdXmbLH0UhBYF-2FzPzWNuFn-2BXxTer-2BcmiOwFShoDWI7GwBEzpj9FJXS-2B-2Bye7TqO2cdo4H5L-2BNqUTkLrccOIutuAt5JersBS0SX4C9OqhE-3D) [*Jewish News Syndicate*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDykDiCZhPSG-2Bx39Rjxrok3m7HMxWhrmnDMlh6FG2uApllCjT0Po0xDx1vUDRQmaGcGUUkRLQOBjYmhtNDuj8bJvEqYd-2FwpJSLQqZWU0DVJbmUbDu-2FAp0C1mJT8KFcKyXA-3D-3DVtSy_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YaJLhyuw36jYFbpPyD5L1Md5lg871fJzLc5QqcB5nGy3uM-2BLxleZgUampeYMCs1eG5wHUFvxZ7UYIR8-2FNQa3vfP21kMN8EcLgYPquDB6YKaUT-2B6D5TmQZslbBK4s8kNQWfn8nq3mrimtJYKTftXPPlfIkBZaOG3YEn38Yex-2B34D8-2BdvJY8XpcODEMU03O3GuJdvVj774fzn8h5Kveyszuhs-3D) **Applying the News Story** Judaism, Christianity and Islam have differences but are members of the same family of faith. Christianity began as a Jewish sect in Judea during the first century A.D., and many of the first Christians were Jews who came to believe that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah. The writers of the New Testament knew the Jewish Scriptures and understood the two testaments to be connected. Judaism and Christianity are rooted in the God of Israel, the Scriptures of Israel and the Patriarchs of Israel. Later, Islam incorporated parts of Judeo-Christian beliefs into its theology and practice. Explore how this shared faith heritage and spiritual DNA can help you to live a faithful life today. **The Big Questions** 1. What connections between Judaism, Christianity and Islam are important to you, and why? Where do you see important distinctions between the faiths? 2. How is the Sephardic Jewish heritage of Christopher Columbus meaningful to you, if at all? What is the significance of his conversion to Christianity, either voluntarily or under pressure? How did his actions reflect his faith, if at all? 3. In what ways have you been shaped by your biological family? In what ways have you been shaped by the families you have chosen to be part of, including your church family? Where do you see assets and liabilities in each of these families? 4. How would you describe your spiritual DNA? Who are the individuals who have shaped your faith, and what qualities did they pass on to you? When and where will you share these traits with others? 5. What aspects of your religious heritage help you to live a faithful life today? Is your family tree entirely Christian, or are there family members from other faiths? What aspects of this heritage are most inspiring to you, and why? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Genesis 17:1-2,7***When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, "I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless. And I will make my covenant between me and you and will make you exceedingly numerous. ... I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you."* (For context, read [Genesis 17:1-8.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNdGGqArmu6MCPxoXcHtIo-2BYYMeFebtz3HgdlIQ02eFvPzhhb_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YbPNVOpr-2F838byY0fyx0CsHPQmSYDWCT2wDp5INS7m-2BkRF-2B-2FbwVHJvcuU3RaCjVA-2FdBDVOnLPQbKzoAwa7Q5kjeDA3iDF3mSN-2Fmi7YCuokww4VtPNGMfIJTfomv2jxDAPIUnljzXhwqHYpOTwveqYKM6tlgrD9-2BrhV-2Bp6974GawzVYTKRyEVXO6ui3ZuZMt9zgtv6e0Eq5EFJcgejBgTL-2BI-3D)) The book of Genesis begins with an account of the creation of the heavens and the earth, but it quickly moves into the story of God's covenant with Abram, soon to be renamed Abraham. This covenant is a promise-based relationship that creates a unique relationship between God and Abraham, one that eventually extends to "a multitude of nations" (v. 4). Covenants are found in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, and sometimes the Bible itself is divided into sections called the "old covenant" and the "new covenant." When Abraham was 99 years old, God appeared and said, "I am God Almighty [*E**l Shaddai*]; walk before me and be blameless." God promises to make a covenant with Abraham, a relationship in which God will be faithful to Abraham and Abraham will walk before God "and be blameless." This covenant is established between God, Abraham and his offspring, and it is intended to be "an everlasting covenant," one in which God Almighty acts as God to Abraham and his descendants. As part of this covenant, God makes the promises, "I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you" (v. 6). > **Questions:** How do you feel yourself to be part of "the everlasting covenant" that God made with Abraham? What difference does it make to you? Where and how does it create connections between Jews, Christians and Muslims? When, if ever, has this covenant been broken? **Isaiah 42:6***I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, ...* (For context, read [Isaiah 42:1-7](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx01q-2FDUFHyH4Q-2FNuCp9d7ZzgnFsqL6iSjpbY-2FGfoiavIhtRXYejgnzV8LdpiwoUCSP044_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YWPpBDsScOR3yG9NJBLs-2BcGBMKpsw1F2QUzMbV0-2FBlb84nVPkTm-2B1i8KBZyRckzWEjH7FxGFafE2WA2std-2BHr9gxTD7mtOYpZaSMtcp7rPKdbEUym-2B-2FLyTVeM-2FEr1WjuhuLD6-2Fx8PyZrNNw1RYGrcBkGihHwJzgSln08LK5z8Ktt1kum2JZhD4mihekH48W5Sx3t0qxn3S6pUiAkRnf3m-2FQ-3D).) Isaiah is the first of the prophetic books in the Old Testament, written in large part in the eighth century before the birth of Christ. It contains four Servant Songs, the first of which is found in chapter 42. Isaiah is the prophet whom Jesus quotes the most (eight times), and his prophecies are often understood to be fulfilled in Jesus, including the prophetic Servant Songs. Speaking through Isaiah, God says, "Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations" (v. 1). The servant is chosen by God and filled with God's Spirit, much as Jesus was chosen and Spirit-filled at the time of his baptism (John 1:33-34). The servant of God can also be understood as the people of Israel, given by God as "a covenant to the people, a light to the nations." Understood in this way, the covenant with Abraham and his descendants is not designed to benefit only the people of the covenant, but others as well. Israel is to be "a light to the nations," bringing God's illumination to people outside of Israel. The mission of the servant of God is "to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness" (v. 7). > **Questions:** What does it mean to you to be "a light to the nations," whether you are a follower of Jesus or a part of the people of Israel? How is the covenant designed to benefit both insiders and outsiders? How would you define God's mission to the world? **Matthew 1:17***So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations.* (For context, read [Matthew 1:1-17](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDQ6EMKjvew1-2BJNE7LcmXLj4Rbs8LtXscpBnywM58b4pGaZ2Y_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YS8qYlzH6OVZt4AFsdEY66GNnYOdRHl8rddes72-2FfRsAldca1YGdD6KqWXXpZ0uhUb-2FiCy9pTXU-2BoNM4zKl0uwH3H4OaMntfE0RC5uRbN5xyWPlDRH1U68gClmYITZgN9ZySJeQDrRqtFbxcsQU25PzE4VHwQPUaSyk5gHUY2jvQLOgF4w3ASq-2BLTHHq9T3GlucuaH5lQZXFvxr1U6MF5RA-3D).) The gospel of Matthew is concerned with placing Jesus in the story of God's saving work, which began in Genesis and continued through the Old Testament. The gospel begins with an "account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham" (v. 1), and ends with a story of the resurrected Jesus commissioning his disciples on a mountain and telling them to teach people to obey everything that he has commanded them (28:20). Matthew seems to be presenting Jesus as a second Moses, giving new laws and teachings to Israel and to the world. Jesus is clearly a product of the family tree of the people of Israel, with an unbreakable connection to Abraham and his everlasting covenant. The "Jewish-Christian divide is a false dichotomy," writes TWW team member Frank Ramirez. "We are family, sharing an enormous written literature which makes us who we are. The versions of history contained in the Hebrew Scriptures define us as a people who share an ordered universe that is secure but not safe, who serve a rational God, and who under a single umbrella of faith are scattered among a multiplicity of interpretations of those scriptures." > **Questions:** What do you consider to be the most important links between Jesus and his Jewish identity? How did Jesus honor his heritage, and how did he critique it or add to it? What aspect of your Jewish spiritual ancestry is meaningful to you, and how does it influence your life of faith? **Romans 11:26-27***And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, "Out of Zion will come the Deliverer; he will banish ungodliness from Jacob." "And this is my covenant with them, when I take away their sins."* (For context, read [Romans 11:25-36](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxB1sByFkCq00De7qxK5ZsvmY48BA8mmybK-2BWyjoqoJggeWyfo5wkvXCkT4jSB-2Fl-2Fol1_f_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YQNeq1BUYNGVKYUHlM-2B1mYPWUgzP7l-2B-2B23tsvmNVOv-2BGiSWRb9DPdVcx4OnJwnhC7wV9lDMNZmHs9EHSD-2BTPTakmAkxLjAYyBz-2BmAavS1wjAj6ygp62RN-2F9xE429BRYLqiolJBmqEFAXNLSRIY9sE9NBvSJpAY054Nn8gT30ewT5JLTfDB-2FzkwIJGazdob4nvrixSdJ87Vge2Ui4zdznNIg-3D).) Paul's letter to the Romans was written to a community he had never visited, and it contains a compelling definition of the gospel: "it is God's saving power for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith, as it is written, 'The one who is righteous will live by faith'" (1:16-17). Having grown up a Jew, Paul knew this line from Habakkuk 2:4, and he used it as the foundation for his belief in the saving power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the fourth chapter, Paul digs deeper into the power of faith by lifting up the example of Abraham, who "believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness" (4:3). He honored the faith of Abraham, which he saw as the key to being made right with God. Then, in the 11th chapter, Paul describes himself as "an Israelite, a descendant of Abrham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin" (v. 1). He gives a lengthy description of God's work through Israel, and concludes with the conviction that "all Israel will be saved." > **Questions:** How do you understand God to be working through the people of Israel, from ancient times until today? In what ways can Jews and Christians do a better job of working together? Where do you see places in which we can respectfully disagree? Where are "the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God" revealed in the Abrahamic tradition? **For Further Discussion** 1. TWW team member Frank Ramirez recalls, "When I was in high school, over 50 years ago, one of my teachers made a point that has stuck with me ever since. He said that 1492 was a significant year in history because that's when Spain kicked out the Jews and the Moors. The loss of diversity was the beginning of the end for the Spanish Empire and the beginning of a long decline." When has the exclusion of a group of people hurt a community, in your experience? When has such an exclusion been justified, if at all? Discuss the value of diversity in society. 2. Christopher Columbus thought of himself as being on a religious mission. In [Isaiah 42:6-7](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx01q-2FDUFHyH4Q-2FNuCp9d7Z8kQqiO81FgqMFX9gUgllT1MHbbjyOQPBBnZzhJW9nLeC4Zg_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YREnjwh1NUNjfWbRHc2gOxYh89IWSnI8M8pRNi3EUxDuJE4KAjj1NUmudGDAMV6RrfEPt3fi7H-2BZXcOujblPF3yPEm-2Fmz459UYs64ZZwHYueiJIOt3YaOksGjhfdWqaUOhr31vONCO1V-2B7CWSPEkrzJ-2F9KL55A0KJBOEchiabk-2FrZIT68IOKEXvXfYrkHALWftkTIDKiiiFoZ9x4EfVh3KE-3D), God says, "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon." In what sense did Columbus achieve this mission of God, and in what sense did he fail? 3. On Columbus Day, [*Baptist News Global*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbsOpED7DZ9dg5cvPY-2ByY1P2eDszh5FeZ2fUTxLsw5lHbVFiJyIW5-2Bfb6mB46WiKWzmm4MgPflKYQPoEjzvloP1ZQuVu_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YSIqNwdEbpx41w-2FGKg3PFsK3Y0sjhE8-2BBt3NFb2P4DKTUVvm0eZyhD8ThUDrxUeJhhGlKOBi7M7bi653B3Idr6tHdO33JvpFC58x12CPqv4EmtN3H4Vq3uCjtoQ-2BFcYvC4M8gIyJnI8dH-2Bu1sDmkBSdHg6Onqmg4rD-2BxhbwevK7M-2FG72zzxkgI30T-2BpQz3FoDx-2Bo92eI91fM-2FJBI-2FDAPbkY-3D) began a story with the words, "Although Christopher Columbus is remembered as much today for unleashing destruction on native peoples as for discovering new lands, one thing about him has remained a mystery: What is his own lineage? Now, Spanish scientists believe he was born into a Sephardic Jewish family from Western Europe and converted to Catholicism to avoid religious persecution." Why should Christians care about this news story? Which aspect of the Columbus story -- destruction of native peoples, discovery of new lands, religious identity and mission, the explorer's lineage -- is most important to you, and why? 4. If you have done a DNA test to learn about your own lineage, what surprises were uncovered, if any? What did the results teach you about yourself? Where do you see value in such testing, for individuals, families and communities? **Responding to the News** Look at yourself and your neighbors with a new appreciation for the complexity of our ancestry, as biological families and as faith communities. Find a way to make a connection with a person of another race, nationality or religious tradition, and be open to finding common ground. **Prayer** Lord of every land and culture, we thank you for the diversity of people on earth. Help us to see your image in everyone we meet, and to find new ways to live in respect, understanding and peace. In Jesus' name. Amen. ****Copyright 2024 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=3A8734SpS1Tu7jUZSkIMi-l3f6jIiCW7T-tN6_CY3mBoMDAwdTAwMLkkU4LmMMJwRYZgQiQAuOPp8-2Q_C8aJtY_9NeoCxKThAmcAg90OShIYrsTvHxvA2ptA3Gsvkgz8cJRF8Uc5siHSHEZDclHH3WEuMt-r66-CjA2Bmm_tAXklJobO7wUzxcpR0D5BtOWkw53Un7E_DCe-LETrBN5P8EnweCsuDsFvsD1auhZJFJ2X8YK_gC43Elc0w7T3L1X0VZ9nVc7jSdqgYCZ4f36R1xokBLJdvim_aOr2Zh7y4c42hNlojaa5EdLN9Jgq2-gE1CzHEWG0y-5YPTX9mM_lLh87QkqFCRJv136T67p78CwWz-lXrf4IZnK25VC4t9Gg1ev6xgkQWhz-tutO2qbbEibPw2Ny97FEDZZvaSC-MMf6EyLnM9NxfnP8yfYrfwcSzd9zuQT3UE8gk2GMsUOZY4SiXPs7apnGJjdDTes6onLlgksdvQyYC7urbRpWAkXdM0n2IRDx5H8L-EKUmUU_2K3G106nA5HLqgPTR1jL5EHJoSRp6ll4Lt_Qjt4xv3Cl6rcVyaPs47R2ggOgNQxrH6DXBcbRhUqQjSE42bggn7AiG4mImORn9PY2GJQabKTxiGYq1D36MU=) <div>Dear Class Members, A recent study has found that Christopher Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. This discovery gives The Wired Word an opportunity to reflect on how Judaism, Christianity and Islam claim a common ancestor in Abraham, and to explore how our faith heritage and our spiritual DNA help us to live faithful lives today. <center><img alt="" src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> DNA Analysis Reveals Columbus Was a Jew The Wired Word for the Week of October 27, 2024 In the News <div> Christopher Columbus was the 15th-century Italian explorer who opened the way for the European colonization of the Americas. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain supported his voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492, with the goals of finding a safer route to the East, along with gold, spices and converts to Christianity. Columbus completed four voyages across the Atlantic, funded by these Catholic monarchs, and he often wrote about converting all races to Christianity. Historian of science Darin Hayton writes that Columbus' "voyage westward seems to have been part of his efforts to bring Christianity to the peoples of the world, to save humans before Christ's Second Coming and Judgment Day." Now, Spanish scientists have announced that DNA analysis reveals that Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. This discovery comes after years of debate about the background of the explorer. Many historians have questioned the theory that Columbus came from Genoa, Italy, while others have suggested that he was a Spanish Jew or a Greek, or perhaps from a Basque, Portuguese or British background. These findings align with the theory of journalist and researcher Joan "Nito" Verdera, who had long advocated that Columbus was from a crypto-Jewish family and born on the Balearic Island of Ibiza. The DNA findings come from a 22-year investigation, led by a forensic expert named Miguel Lorente. The research team tested small samples of remains buried in the Seville Cathedral. This cathedral had traditionally been seen as the last resting place of Columbus, although there had been rival claims. According to Reuters, the researchers compared these samples with the DNA of relatives and descendants of Columbus. "We have DNA from Christopher Columbus, very partial, but sufficient. We have DNA from Hernando Colón, his son," Lorente said, in a program titled "Columbus DNA: The true origin," which aired on Spanish television earlier this month. "And both in the Y chromosome (male) and in the mitochondrial DNA (transmitted by the mother) of Hernando there are traits compatible with Jewish origin." Approximately 300,000 Jews lived in Spain before the Catholic Monarchs Isabella and Ferdinand ordered Jews and Muslims to convert to the Catholic faith or leave the country. Columbus (and his family before him) may have converted to Catholicism to avoid religious persecution. Many Jews and Muslims departed Spain during this period and settled around the world. The word Sephardic comes from the Hebrew word sefarad, which means "Spain." The historical record indicates that Columbus was a practicing Catholic. There is no proof that Columbus lived a Jewish life, "nor even as a crypto-Jew," said Jonathan Ray, professor of Jewish studies at Georgetown University, to Jewish News Syndicate. "Rather, it would seem to indicate that he was a converso, or New Christian as they are often called -- that is, a descendant of Iberian Jews who had converted to Christianity under duress during the century leading up to Spain's expulsion of the Jews in 1492. Some of these conversos remained steadfast to Judaism, albeit in secret, leaving Spain and Portugal to return to Judaism in other lands." Ori Soltes, former director of the B’nai B’rith Klutznick National Jewish Museum, said that "meticulous studies" by researcher Peter Dickson have shown that "Columbus was a child of his era and his bloodline mixed Spanish, Genoese and French strains -- indeed, more than just these three -- as well as intertwining Jewish and Christian strains." Although the birthplace of Columbus cannot be narrowed down to anything more specific than Western Europe, the Lorente-led study did determine that the remains in Seville Cathedral belong to Columbus. The explorer died in Spain in 1506, but wished to be buried on the island of Hispaniola, which is currently shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The remains of Columbus were taken to Hispaniola in 1542, and then a portion moved to Cuba in 1795 and finally transported to Seville in 1898. </div> More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA9QEq5qr9f5bcrV2tUBDuXyoi3Btqf8yJabOps7uHrMQr9SJjpDCh0fhBRGNq-2FMm-2Bt6ceuhLM04O1jT8InJGuCR16AgeQpUMtRGav9GFaG0JqlFDlaK7RFGxzXp3irVpQ-3D-3DaMfP\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YXUTYsY1fd9UWr6Vz55i5jK826c-2B1z7eRslX2AQzDBTNNH3d-2BesPwbZy5-2FDJPGDoEaXehmZ5omDGq-2Fqoqryp4u-2BkzcbLHrYWGIYNS5UYD2nDWKd31vgCxHyzTsniDwYQuPP2YBH9Ira3T8b-2B5Mk7aWver82VvD6g71luSCDVbNCxHpAS-2FaUNXJipV89LJzmksv2U6Iz6B-2BZxlbarVegyiaM-3D">Columbus's Voyage was a Religious Journey. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA9QEq5qr9f5bcrV2tUBDuXyoi3Btqf8yJabOps7uHrMQr9SJjpDCh0fhBRGNq-2FMm-2Bt6ceuhLM04O1jT8InJGuCR16AgeQpUMtRGav9GFaG0JqlFDlaK7RFGxzXp3irVpQ-3D-3DBlNw\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0Yco35-2ByPLVnDkHWAbLSwVehYfLsYaeIzHLOHJyVOjMk0VA71RZQm-2FwKxHy-2BrBDw9oOdn8cF2SlDhnWHWjJdfpnRbVGaFspJyZaxjBz2dQtP0bDhlWB-2B-2F2sdU5zcstklrhy4TH3jk-2Butdb3u5xLxTFNVfecIFdrdGpQFSQBcFZwt8pBrX6A0497aym-2BWAQfo8ZAgVODF3LNXFQDkU1tjlFRk-3D">Haverford College</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfJYlvlord4D6dVaBJf-2F9Dta6Ds79ohfxDPD2N-2BKWGcr-2FbqlHONRBaXA0OC9sPjYgO9uit7ok1WASkynUtAmdHlHLAak\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YRrhtJP1mxpKQdmgzrlj4dUPg0A-2FImKFmWSvCQkDhc-2FRXUze4AUV-2BUZFNPwLbrJmRQZRZyN4LaO7VV6bJIfq6wQYgY-2BQqPzSeKHz-2BLYsjXCuuYAS-2FCtJ6r5L5INS3Vye6Ba80TINdkePOTBBA34r0OPrkXoQJkYZjmxBlhTcuChVryGqs-2B0f-2FSvCUUwaEAUmys-2F-2BWF9R3PiCcbqrSba-2BdDY-3D">Columbus Was a Sephardic Jew From Western Europe, Study Finds,</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfJYlvlord4D6dVaBJf-2F9Dta6Ds79ohfxDPD2N-2BKWGcr-2FbqlHONRBaXA0OC9sPjYgO9uit7ok1WASkynUtAmdHlHkwy\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YVxdYoLnBOSdJ1Ynuc7-2B-2FuYLr7cRGZL67KxK8iVeOQH48Q3PS6mb6D8xJQoKBwavsResgqqEHGwM4D4EbaLNhI81KP2yCF1fr23PxjmOZSmlZmd-2F8Q4BbasWuWnsWKIO5N6xH3eDDUJWtFRHJ3S6cJzt1KHzvKPpcLXghijH-2Bl0Q668jUkFp3aDXM-2BjihO48PX3WWyFsrhPigmIsF1H9Wb0-3D"> Reuters</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDykDiCZhPSG-2Bx39Rjxrok3m7HMxWhrmnDMlh6FG2uApllCjT0Po0xDx1vUDRQmaGcGUUkRLQOBjYmhtNDuj8bJvEqYd-2FwpJSLQqZWU0DVJbmUbDu-2FAp0C1mJT8KFcKyXA-3D-3Dk-uX\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YTyTlyf46OG858lYqnq-2BDq-2BgDAGyX14fQmwoH0PHBar9mut6mFgPn7q1fE7BLvSUfpMMCQsjp7uuPIIiFJjNxB6pufKNKepTwK-2FCAr6Ktdyz-2F-2B2PdXmbLH0UhBYF-2FzPzWNuFn-2BXxTer-2BcmiOwFShoDWI7GwBEzpj9FJXS-2B-2Bye7TqO2cdo4H5L-2BNqUTkLrccOIutuAt5JersBS0SX4C9OqhE-3D">Experts Advise Caution About Report Christopher Columbus Was Jewish. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDykDiCZhPSG-2Bx39Rjxrok3m7HMxWhrmnDMlh6FG2uApllCjT0Po0xDx1vUDRQmaGcGUUkRLQOBjYmhtNDuj8bJvEqYd-2FwpJSLQqZWU0DVJbmUbDu-2FAp0C1mJT8KFcKyXA-3D-3DVtSy\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YaJLhyuw36jYFbpPyD5L1Md5lg871fJzLc5QqcB5nGy3uM-2BLxleZgUampeYMCs1eG5wHUFvxZ7UYIR8-2FNQa3vfP21kMN8EcLgYPquDB6YKaUT-2B6D5TmQZslbBK4s8kNQWfn8nq3mrimtJYKTftXPPlfIkBZaOG3YEn38Yex-2B34D8-2BdvJY8XpcODEMU03O3GuJdvVj774fzn8h5Kveyszuhs-3D">Jewish News Syndicate</a> Applying the News Story Judaism, Christianity and Islam have differences but are members of the same family of faith. Christianity began as a Jewish sect in Judea during the first century A.D., and many of the first Christians were Jews who came to believe that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah. The writers of the New Testament knew the Jewish Scriptures and understood the two testaments to be connected. Judaism and Christianity are rooted in the God of Israel, the Scriptures of Israel and the Patriarchs of Israel. Later, Islam incorporated parts of Judeo-Christian beliefs into its theology and practice. Explore how this shared faith heritage and spiritual DNA can help you to live a faithful life today. The Big Questions 1. What connections between Judaism, Christianity and Islam are important to you, and why? Where do you see important distinctions between the faiths? 2. How is the Sephardic Jewish heritage of Christopher Columbus meaningful to you, if at all? What is the significance of his conversion to Christianity, either voluntarily or under pressure? How did his actions reflect his faith, if at all? 3. In what ways have you been shaped by your biological family? In what ways have you been shaped by the families you have chosen to be part of, including your church family? Where do you see assets and liabilities in each of these families? 4. How would you describe your spiritual DNA? Who are the individuals who have shaped your faith, and what qualities did they pass on to you? When and where will you share these traits with others? 5. What aspects of your religious heritage help you to live a faithful life today? Is your family tree entirely Christian, or are there family members from other faiths? What aspects of this heritage are most inspiring to you, and why? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Genesis 17:1-2,7 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, "I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless. And I will make my covenant between me and you and will make you exceedingly numerous. ... I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNdGGqArmu6MCPxoXcHtIo-2BYYMeFebtz3HgdlIQ02eFvPzhhb\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YbPNVOpr-2F838byY0fyx0CsHPQmSYDWCT2wDp5INS7m-2BkRF-2B-2FbwVHJvcuU3RaCjVA-2FdBDVOnLPQbKzoAwa7Q5kjeDA3iDF3mSN-2Fmi7YCuokww4VtPNGMfIJTfomv2jxDAPIUnljzXhwqHYpOTwveqYKM6tlgrD9-2BrhV-2Bp6974GawzVYTKRyEVXO6ui3ZuZMt9zgtv6e0Eq5EFJcgejBgTL-2BI-3D">Genesis 17:1-8.</a>) The book of Genesis begins with an account of the creation of the heavens and the earth, but it quickly moves into the story of God's covenant with Abram, soon to be renamed Abraham. This covenant is a promise-based relationship that creates a unique relationship between God and Abraham, one that eventually extends to "a multitude of nations" (v. 4). Covenants are found in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, and sometimes the Bible itself is divided into sections called the "old covenant" and the "new covenant." When Abraham was 99 years old, God appeared and said, "I am God Almighty [El Shaddai]; walk before me and be blameless." God promises to make a covenant with Abraham, a relationship in which God will be faithful to Abraham and Abraham will walk before God "and be blameless." This covenant is established between God, Abraham and his offspring, and it is intended to be "an everlasting covenant," one in which God Almighty acts as God to Abraham and his descendants. As part of this covenant, God makes the promises, "I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you" (v. 6). <blockquote> Questions: How do you feel yourself to be part of "the everlasting covenant" that God made with Abraham? What difference does it make to you? Where and how does it create connections between Jews, Christians and Muslims? When, if ever, has this covenant been broken? </blockquote> Isaiah 42:6 I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, ... (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx01q-2FDUFHyH4Q-2FNuCp9d7ZzgnFsqL6iSjpbY-2FGfoiavIhtRXYejgnzV8LdpiwoUCSP044\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YWPpBDsScOR3yG9NJBLs-2BcGBMKpsw1F2QUzMbV0-2FBlb84nVPkTm-2B1i8KBZyRckzWEjH7FxGFafE2WA2std-2BHr9gxTD7mtOYpZaSMtcp7rPKdbEUym-2B-2FLyTVeM-2FEr1WjuhuLD6-2Fx8PyZrNNw1RYGrcBkGihHwJzgSln08LK5z8Ktt1kum2JZhD4mihekH48W5Sx3t0qxn3S6pUiAkRnf3m-2FQ-3D">Isaiah 42:1-7</a>.) Isaiah is the first of the prophetic books in the Old Testament, written in large part in the eighth century before the birth of Christ. It contains four Servant Songs, the first of which is found in chapter 42. Isaiah is the prophet whom Jesus quotes the most (eight times), and his prophecies are often understood to be fulfilled in Jesus, including the prophetic Servant Songs. Speaking through Isaiah, God says, "Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations" (v. 1). The servant is chosen by God and filled with God's Spirit, much as Jesus was chosen and Spirit-filled at the time of his baptism (John 1:33-34). The servant of God can also be understood as the people of Israel, given by God as "a covenant to the people, a light to the nations." Understood in this way, the covenant with Abraham and his descendants is not designed to benefit only the people of the covenant, but others as well. Israel is to be "a light to the nations," bringing God's illumination to people outside of Israel. The mission of the servant of God is "to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness" (v. 7). <blockquote> Questions: What does it mean to you to be "a light to the nations," whether you are a follower of Jesus or a part of the people of Israel? How is the covenant designed to benefit both insiders and outsiders? How would you define God's mission to the world? </blockquote> Matthew 1:17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDQ6EMKjvew1-2BJNE7LcmXLj4Rbs8LtXscpBnywM58b4pGaZ2Y\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YS8qYlzH6OVZt4AFsdEY66GNnYOdRHl8rddes72-2FfRsAldca1YGdD6KqWXXpZ0uhUb-2FiCy9pTXU-2BoNM4zKl0uwH3H4OaMntfE0RC5uRbN5xyWPlDRH1U68gClmYITZgN9ZySJeQDrRqtFbxcsQU25PzE4VHwQPUaSyk5gHUY2jvQLOgF4w3ASq-2BLTHHq9T3GlucuaH5lQZXFvxr1U6MF5RA-3D">Matthew 1:1-17</a>.) <div> The gospel of Matthew is concerned with placing Jesus in the story of God's saving work, which began in Genesis and continued through the Old Testament. The gospel begins with an "account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham" (v. 1), and ends with a story of the resurrected Jesus commissioning his disciples on a mountain and telling them to teach people to obey everything that he has commanded them (28:20). Matthew seems to be presenting Jesus as a second Moses, giving new laws and teachings to Israel and to the world. Jesus is clearly a product of the family tree of the people of Israel, with an unbreakable connection to Abraham and his everlasting covenant. The "Jewish-Christian divide is a false dichotomy," writes TWW team member Frank Ramirez. "We are family, sharing an enormous written literature which makes us who we are. The versions of history contained in the Hebrew Scriptures define us as a people who share an ordered universe that is secure but not safe, who serve a rational God, and who under a single umbrella of faith are scattered among a multiplicity of interpretations of those scriptures." </div> <blockquote> Questions: What do you consider to be the most important links between Jesus and his Jewish identity? How did Jesus honor his heritage, and how did he critique it or add to it? What aspect of your Jewish spiritual ancestry is meaningful to you, and how does it influence your life of faith? </blockquote> Romans 11:26-27 And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, "Out of Zion will come the Deliverer; he will banish ungodliness from Jacob." "And this is my covenant with them, when I take away their sins." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxB1sByFkCq00De7qxK5ZsvmY48BA8mmybK-2BWyjoqoJggeWyfo5wkvXCkT4jSB-2Fl-2Fol1\_f\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YQNeq1BUYNGVKYUHlM-2B1mYPWUgzP7l-2B-2B23tsvmNVOv-2BGiSWRb9DPdVcx4OnJwnhC7wV9lDMNZmHs9EHSD-2BTPTakmAkxLjAYyBz-2BmAavS1wjAj6ygp62RN-2F9xE429BRYLqiolJBmqEFAXNLSRIY9sE9NBvSJpAY054Nn8gT30ewT5JLTfDB-2FzkwIJGazdob4nvrixSdJ87Vge2Ui4zdznNIg-3D">Romans 11:25-36</a>.) Paul's letter to the Romans was written to a community he had never visited, and it contains a compelling definition of the gospel: "it is God's saving power for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith, as it is written, 'The one who is righteous will live by faith'" (1:16-17). Having grown up a Jew, Paul knew this line from Habakkuk 2:4, and he used it as the foundation for his belief in the saving power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the fourth chapter, Paul digs deeper into the power of faith by lifting up the example of Abraham, who "believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness" (4:3). He honored the faith of Abraham, which he saw as the key to being made right with God. Then, in the 11th chapter, Paul describes himself as "an Israelite, a descendant of Abrham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin" (v. 1). He gives a lengthy description of God's work through Israel, and concludes with the conviction that "all Israel will be saved." <blockquote> Questions: How do you understand God to be working through the people of Israel, from ancient times until today? In what ways can Jews and Christians do a better job of working together? Where do you see places in which we can respectfully disagree? Where are "the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God" revealed in the Abrahamic tradition? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. TWW team member Frank Ramirez recalls, "When I was in high school, over 50 years ago, one of my teachers made a point that has stuck with me ever since. He said that 1492 was a significant year in history because that's when Spain kicked out the Jews and the Moors. The loss of diversity was the beginning of the end for the Spanish Empire and the beginning of a long decline." When has the exclusion of a group of people hurt a community, in your experience? When has such an exclusion been justified, if at all? Discuss the value of diversity in society. 2. Christopher Columbus thought of himself as being on a religious mission. In <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx01q-2FDUFHyH4Q-2FNuCp9d7Z8kQqiO81FgqMFX9gUgllT1MHbbjyOQPBBnZzhJW9nLeC4Zg\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YREnjwh1NUNjfWbRHc2gOxYh89IWSnI8M8pRNi3EUxDuJE4KAjj1NUmudGDAMV6RrfEPt3fi7H-2BZXcOujblPF3yPEm-2Fmz459UYs64ZZwHYueiJIOt3YaOksGjhfdWqaUOhr31vONCO1V-2B7CWSPEkrzJ-2F9KL55A0KJBOEchiabk-2FrZIT68IOKEXvXfYrkHALWftkTIDKiiiFoZ9x4EfVh3KE-3D">Isaiah 42:6-7</a>, God says, "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon." In what sense did Columbus achieve this mission of God, and in what sense did he fail? 3. On Columbus Day, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDOhFUSKFTeB4q7KNfv1pbsOpED7DZ9dg5cvPY-2ByY1P2eDszh5FeZ2fUTxLsw5lHbVFiJyIW5-2Bfb6mB46WiKWzmm4MgPflKYQPoEjzvloP1ZQuVu\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymbtp5zJxg4f5lyAzxcbEXf4AEZcJm4FW-2Bzl-2BmpYNWMeHz6FXBu3PewFIOw6vIFi0YSIqNwdEbpx41w-2FGKg3PFsK3Y0sjhE8-2BBt3NFb2P4DKTUVvm0eZyhD8ThUDrxUeJhhGlKOBi7M7bi653B3Idr6tHdO33JvpFC58x12CPqv4EmtN3H4Vq3uCjtoQ-2BFcYvC4M8gIyJnI8dH-2Bu1sDmkBSdHg6Onqmg4rD-2BxhbwevK7M-2FG72zzxkgI30T-2BpQz3FoDx-2Bo92eI91fM-2FJBI-2FDAPbkY-3D">Baptist News Global </a>began a story with the words, "Although Christopher Columbus is remembered as much today for unleashing destruction on native peoples as for discovering new lands, one thing about him has remained a mystery: What is his own lineage? Now, Spanish scientists believe he was born into a Sephardic Jewish family from Western Europe and converted to Catholicism to avoid religious persecution." Why should Christians care about this news story? Which aspect of the Columbus story -- destruction of native peoples, discovery of new lands, religious identity and mission, the explorer's lineage -- is most important to you, and why? 4. If you have done a DNA test to learn about your own lineage, what surprises were uncovered, if any? What did the results teach you about yourself? Where do you see value in such testing, for individuals, families and communities? Responding to the News Look at yourself and your neighbors with a new appreciation for the complexity of our ancestry, as biological families and as faith communities. Find a way to make a connection with a person of another race, nationality or religious tradition, and be open to finding common ground. Prayer Lord of every land and culture, we thank you for the diversity of people on earth. Help us to see your image in everyone we meet, and to find new ways to live in respect, understanding and peace. In Jesus' name. Amen. 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