“…and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of

Peace.” –Isaiah 9:6

“Therefore God has highly exalted Him and given Him a name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” –Philippians 2:9-11

As Christmas approaches we celebrate the incarnation, the coming of God in human form to rescue fallen man. His name was to be called Immanuel, meaning “God with us”. (Isaiah 7:14) This promised messiah was to be named, Jesus because he would save the world from their sins. (Matthew 1:21) This savior would give his life to redeem sinful man. He is the one that God has exalted and given a name above every name. (Philippians 2:9) He is the one that the book of Revelation says is “Worthy, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12) He is Jesus our King, and his name is beautiful! He is the one who is worthy of our entire lives and our eternal worship. He alone can fill the void in our souls and the longing of our hearts.

His name is not to be taken lightly or used in vain. His name is to be magnified and lifted up. This Christmas he and he alone should be the focus. He should be talked about in our homes, sung about in our churches, and adored by his people. Don’t settle for counterfeits or second rate idols. Fix your eyes on Jesus, “the author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2) who is ”the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:7). Focus on Jesus, what a beautiful name it is.

For His glory and your joy,

Pastor Charlie