WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Many couples, learning that they are going to have a baby, work really hard at selecting a name for their child that will have a connection to someone in the family or a friend or someone who has meant a great deal to the two of them. Many couples look specifically at the meaning of the name and some look even more specifically at the Biblical meaning of names as they make their selection. It’s an exciting time.

My wife and I are grandparents seven times and great grandparents three times. We are Oma and Pop Pop to our grandchildren and great grandchildren. We were honored that our oldest daughter set the pace for the family to call us by these names when her first child, our first grandchild, was born. The choice has great significance to our family.

Names are important.

There is no more important name than the Name of Jesus. The English name, Jesus, comes from the original Hebrew and Aramaic name Yeshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation" or "God will save.” Matthew 1:21 tells us, "She will give birth to a Son; and you shall name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” The significance of THAT NAME represents salvation and everlasting life for all who will call on the Name of Jesus!

If that were the only significant Name given to Jesus, it would be enough. But, He has so many more Names that can meet our needs while we’re here on earth – especially the needs our grief evokes.

Emmanuel - God with us. We’re never alone!

Son of God - His unique relationship with God the Father gives us direct access to the One Who is sovereign over everything, including the source of our grief.

Son of Man - Reminds us that He knows EXACTLY what we’re going through.

Good Shepherd - Represents His willingness to tenderly guide, protect, and lay down His life for His people.

Prince of Peace - Need I expound on the need for peace when we’re grieving?!

Lion of Judah - Symbolizes royal majesty, strength, and victory over spiritual enemies, including the enemies of doubt, fear, worry, depression and anxiety that often attend grief.

Bright and Morning Star - Represents the herald of a new day, hope, and absolute beauty.

Jesus’ Name encompasses ALL that we need for now and for eternity.

I implore you to call on His Name – first for salvation and next, every time your grief overwhelms… and, even when it doesn’t!