Lion of Judah

The prophecy of the Messiah (the Lion of Judah) in Matthew 2:1-6 included the land of Judah (Judea) and the people of Judah (the Jews). What is the connection of Judah to Jesus? Who is this great man who has been given such honor in the lineage of Christ? Surely he was a sinless model of righteousness. Surely he fit the mold of what an heir should be. Except, none of that was the case. Judah was chosen by God to represent the lineage of Christ, not because of who he was but because of his sovereign grace and mercy. Though he was a sinful, fourth born son, Jesus graced him with a place of honor. And all of this shows us that Christmas means God doesn't judge us for our worst day. Christmas is a time of second chances.