Jesus

“He was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived.” (Luke 2:21 NLT)

The name Jesus is an anglicized version of Yeshua, which means savior in Hebrew. Yeshua was a common name in Judea at that time. It represented the hope of an oppressed nation waiting for a rescuer. 

God incarnated as a human and took on an ordinary name. His beginnings were humble. He was born in a manger, raised in poverty, and surrounded by common folk. Since he was a first-born male, he was taken to the temple and dedicated to the Lord, as per custom. 

Yet, there were also signs that Jesus was destined for extraordinary things. Simeon, a prophet at the temple, said this about Jesus: 

“This child will make many in Israel rise and fall. He will be a significant person whom many will oppose. In the end, He will lay bare the secret thoughts of many hearts. And a sword will pierce even your own soul, Mary.” (Luke 2:34 VOICE)

This is not a reassuring prophecy for new parents to hear about their child. We all want to believe our children will grow up to be exceptional. We hope they will bring us joy and make us proud. We pray that they will be happy and lead comfortable lives. 

The life of Jesus was filled with opposition, rejection, and pain. His parents suffered alongside Him. What made Jesus significant? He was used by God. This is also what God wants from each of us. Let us pray that we and our children would yield to being used by God for His purposes.