Call His Name "Jesus"

Note: Today (Jan. 6) is the Day of Epiphany,
the last of the “Twelve Days of Christmas”,
and the day celebrating the coming of the Wise
Men. As such, once again, a message about
the coming of the Christ-child is one for wise
men and women to remember.

The gospel writer, Matthew tells us that the angel appeared to Joseph and, having told him about Mary's conception by the Holy Spirit, said, "she shall bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." (Matt. 1:21)

The name Jesus in Hebrew (sometimes called Joshua), meant "Yahweh is salvation". The task of the Messiah was a big one, to save the world from sin!

Incredible as it may seem, that is exactly what Christians believe. Faith in Christ does not stop us from sinning, nor does it make us perfect, but, in our weakness and poor humanity, sins can be forgiven and removed, and we can rejoice in a happy and lasting fellowship with the Heavenly Father.

Christians are not little gods. Our humanness is not removed from us. Jesus did not come to make us perfect. But he broke the barrier of separation and made it possible for sinful humans, to live with God, as though they were perfect.

We are mere mortals. We are peasants in a far country! But, the coming of Christ makes it possible for us to claim our son-ship with the Heavenly Father, and to feast in beautiful fellowship with the King of Kings. All because of a baby, born in a manger. Praise His Name!