When it comes to naming a new baby, many things are taken into consideration.  I remember being asked about my daughter Joy’s name some years ago.  The person wondered if we waited for a while to name her because she is so suited to the name.  What does your name mean?  Were you named after a special family member?  Did your parents search for a name that held a specific connotation that would set you apart from others?

The names selected for Jesus are many.  The angel told Mary that her Son should be named Jesus because it meant that He would save the people from their sins.  He would be called Immanuel – which means God with us.  Both of those titles show the true nature of Jesus.  He is the Messiah long waited for.  He also came to earth as God in the flesh to dwell with us – to experience all that we go through day by day and so much more.

He was called despised among men.  His name is associated with suffering and pain and the cross of a criminal.  He was referred to as the Lamb of God – the final sacrifice that would at last take away the sin that man could not remove on his own.  His holy precious blood was shed so that we could be redeemed – bought back by the perfect ransom.

Today may the joy of our Savior – Redeemer – Comforter – One true God – live with you and shine in you.  May we reflect on the love that He showed for us and celebrate the fact that we are free from the curse of death because of Him.

Merry CHRIST-mas!