Name Him Jesus

 It is always a special opportunity when we get to choose a name for our child. Sometimes, we choose a family name. At other times, we select a name that is popular at that time. Whatever we decide that name will stick with our baby for his or her lifetime and beyond. That is why it is so important. So let me pose a question for us today? What would be the best name for the Incarnate Son of God? After all, He was God, but He was man, as well. What would have the most meaning? Well, God made that decision, and an  angel told his earthly father Joseph what to name Him. (Matthew 1:21) The angel announced that Mary would have a son, and Joseph was to name Him Jesus. The reason for this name was that He would save His people from their sins. That was the perfect choice for the Only-begotten Son of God.

The name "Jesus" was a very familiar name at that time among the Jewish people. It is the Aramaic version of the Hebrew name "Joshua." Of course, Joshua was a very popular leader of the Hebrews as they conquered the land of Canaan. However, the main reason the name was chosen was because it means "Yahweh is salvation" or "God saves." The name was perfect for Joshua because he was used by God to save or deliver God's people from their enemies and take over the land by God's power. However, the salvation Jesus brought was far greater. He came to deliver all people from their sins. That is why He was born of the virgin Mary. He took on a human body, so He could shed His blood as payment for our sins and die on the cross for us. His salvation is eternal salvation for all who will confess Him as Lord, repenting of their sins and trusting in Him as Savior. Isn't Jesus the perfect name for who He is and what He did? I believe it is. Forever, the name Jesus shows us the love of God who gave Himself for us to be saved from our sins.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Matthew 3-5.