Joshua Jesus

Joshua Jesus

“She will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus for he will save his people from their sins.”

 Matthew 1:21

December 13, 2017

                What calls parents to name their children as they do?

Is there something about a character in a story, a precious stone or jewel, a time of year when something amazing occurred or is it because of family and tradition?  Some names given to children in recent times have included the name of a fruit – “Apple”, precious stones “Emerald” or even Old Testament prophets- “Isaiah” or “Jacob” and also “Elijah”. But tradition also prevails in the names of George or Charlotte. But what about your name? After whom or what did you receive your name? Why do you think your parents named you this?

                Before Mary had her firstborn son an angel of the Lord told Joseph that Mary, his betrothed wife, would have a son and he was to name him Jesus. Jesus purpose in coming to earth was in his name as he was to save his people from their sins. The reason for his coming to earth was to enable people to be reconciled with God and offer to them the gift of forgiveness. Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua (Hebrew) which means the Lord saves. In that day and in that region many children would have been named Jesus but only this baby born to Mary and Joseph came to die so that all who receive Him might live eternally through the gift of forgiveness. This Joshua/ Jesus was born to die so that we might live eternally. His name and mission are the same- He came to save us.

                What about you? What is your mission as you live on this earth? Maybe before we can answer this we might answer the question about whether Jesus’ birth is significant for you because of why he came. Jesus was born to save his people and enable reconciliation with God to occur. Have you prayed to Jesus for this to occur? Do you know the baby born to Mary and Joseph and laid in the stable feed trough? This is the Son of God born for you? His purpose is his name. What is your purpose in life other than to follow him? Are you willing to know Jesus by name so that his life’s purpose may be fulfilled in you?

PRAYER

Wonderful and loving God we thank you for Jesus born of Mary and raised in love with Joseph. We thank you that through Him we might be reconciled with you and receive the gift and promise of eternal life. Help us to understand what having hope in Jesus means not only for this Advent/ Christmas time, but always. Hear our prayers O God. We ask in the name of Jesus, our Saviour. Amen.