There is something about a name…
And behold,
you will conceive in your womb
and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS.
Luke 1:3
My husband and I took a long time considering and praying about what to name each of our children. We desired names filled with meaning to bring God glory, revealing His character through their lives.
So, names are important now, and they certainly were in Bible times as we read in the Scriptures (Genesis 29:32). Yet, there is only one profoundly authoritative, sovereign, and superlative name above all names through whom a person can be made right with God. That name is JESUS. His name alone can heal, save, and deliver us (Acts 4:12, Philippians 2:9-11).
JESUS. Yeshua, a version of Joshua in the Hebrew meaning the Lord is Salvation, and in His name, we find everything we will ever need. JESUS and the myriad of names God’s Word bestows upon Him reveal who He is. There is not a human need, condition, or desire that cannot be consummated in the power of – His name.
The Great I AM taking on flesh to become Immanuel – God with us (Exodus 3:14, John 8:58). The Word of God – another name of His – moving into our neighborhood as The Message relates to save us from our sin (Matthew 1:23). He is the Good Shepherd, Light of the World, Bread of Life, Provider, Healer, Truth, Counselor, Fortress – the list goes on and on.
So, whatever name you need for Him to be this Christmas season, embrace that title entirely for your life. What do you need saving from? Run. Run into the soft, yet powerful embrace found in the shadow of His wings. Leave the details in His care and empty your hands to grab hold of all He truly is. For as His name states, JESUS is all you will ever need.
___________________
From the interactive devotional and YouVersion Plan: Unwrapping Christmas: Viewing the Nativity Through Luke’s Eyes.