When it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. (Luke 2:21)
What name were you given as a child? Who named you? Why was your specific name chosen? Perhaps little is known about who named you and why your name was chosen. Perhaps there is a fun story behind your name, or perhaps it carries a special meaning and has been passed down for years from one generation to the next in your family. Names identify us and tell others who we are. You may have been given other names along the way, such as grandma, dad, aunt, and so on.
The naming of Jesus is set apart from all others. His name did not come from a parent or another family member, but was given by an angel! His name was no mistake, selected before he was even conceived. The name Jesus means “God saves” or “God has saved.” Stopping to think about the power and significance of his name leaves me speechless!
Why is the naming of Jesus so significant to me and you? He did not use the greatness of his name to bring glory to himself. He used his power to do all God set him apart to do: to save us and tear down what separated us from God. God’s love is shared with us because of who Jesus is, what he has done, and what he will do.
Celebrate God’s love for you and praise Jesus’ name!
Mike Osler is completing his MDiv at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University. Mike and his wife, Kim, live in Iowa with their four young boys.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
