It's a Happy New Year Because God Saves!

Every January 1st, the church celebrates the day that Jesus was officially given h is name. This happened on the eighth day after his birth (Jan. 1).

Of course, we don't know which day Jesus was actually born but since the church made December 25 the nativity celebration back in the 4th century, this means the first day of the new year is when we remember the naming of Jesus. The eight day following the birth was also the day that a male baby received circumcision.

How appropriate that on New Year's Day, we not only celebrate the beginning of a new calendar year, but that we also remember the meaning of Jesus' name. Jesus is the Greek word for the Hebrew name "Joshua." Joshua literally means "God saves." In the 1st century, the name Jesus would have reminded Mary and Joseph of how Joshua had led the people of God into the Promised Land. Like Joshua from of old, their baby would one day lead the people of God into a new Promised Land.

Through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death forever. On this day, remember that the name "Jesus" means, "God saves." Hallelujah!

Holy Name of Jesus Prayer:
Eternal Father, who gave to your incarnate Son the holy name of Jesus to be the sign of our salvation: Plant in every heart, we pray, the love of him who is the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
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