The answer is: Jacob

Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus would be given the throne of David and reign over the house of Jacob.

Isn't it fascinating that the angel's message to Mary connects directly to the legacy of Jacob? When the angel announced that Jesus would reign over the house of Jacob, he was tying Jesus to a rich lineage of promises and covenants. Jacob, who was also known as Israel, signifies not just an individual but a whole nation—the people who would wrestle with God and emerge transformed.

This reference also evokes images of Joseph, Jacob’s favorite son, who was a dreamer and a leader in Egypt. Just as Joseph's life was marked by extraordinary twists and turns—betrayal, forgiveness, and ultimate authority so too would Jesus navigate challenges before reaching his divine purpose. Interestingly, if you look closely, both even share themes of coming from humble beginnings but destined for greatness.

And if we dive deeper, connections between Jesus and the hope of the Israelites become very clear through Old Testament prophecies. Looking back to figures like Moses, Isaiah, or even King David—each one touched lives and reshaped the hope of a future among their people.

In the wider scope of biblical narrative, it's as if the story indicates a continual promise that transcends generations, weaving through history and culminating in the birth of Jesus, re-establishing faith, hope, and connection with the divine, continued in whom we recognize not merely as a king but as one who understands humanity from beneath as well as above. Isn’t that a comforting thought?