When it comes to naming our children, we usually put a lot of thought into it.  We check to see the origin of the name and its meaning.  When we named our third child Joy, Noel, it was partially because of the joyous time of the year.  Christmas was her due date.  We had no idea that she would take on the personality of the name, but she did.  She’s become a great joy to us throughout her life. I have a friend who has ten children and waits until after the birth to name her children.  We don’t just randomly name our kids without thinking about it for a while.

Many children have more than one name.  They may be named for a favorite relative, an important person in history or after a parent.  In ancient times, a firstborn son was usually named for his father.  Some names are a combination of names.

The name of Jesus was ordered by the angels who visited Mary and Joseph prior to the birth of the Son of God.  They were given the name designated by God, Himself.  The name Jesus is derived from the Hebrew word Yeshua, which means “deliverer.”  Jesus would be born to save the people.

The prophets gave Him many other names and as He grew into a man he acquired many more. There are over 200 names for Him.  Here are some:

Son of God and Mary’s Son, Mighty Counselor, Emmanuel, Prince of Peace, Savior, Brother, Lord, Redeemer, Man of Sorrows, Lamb of God, King of the Jews, Jehovah and the list goes on and on.

He was born from the line of David and His lineage is clearly stated in the Bible. He was  conceived by God the Father – which is one of the greatest mysteries of our belief system, which requires faith alone. When we praise Jesus over the next few days, with our songs and prayers, let’s remember that He was indeed named by His Father – who spoke through the angels to the earthly parents. 

Even though we may acquire many names over our lifetimes, the only one important to me is “Saved.”  My Savior is Jesus, who lowered Himself – took on human form – lived a life of poverty and simplicity – was scorned by many and suffered and died so that we could become heirs of His heavenly home.  He overcame death, as we will, to live with Him in paradise.

Thank you, Lord, Jesus, for coming to this world as a man and for fulfilling the most amazing purpose of your life – to lay it down for me and all those who believe in you.  Amen!