Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.
She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21 NABRE)
In first-century Judaism the Hebrew name Joshua (Greek Iēsous, Latin Iesus*, transliterated as Jesus) meaning “Yahweh helps” was interpreted as “Yahweh saves.”*
And so when the baby was born, Joseph named the boy Jesus as he was instructed, giving him the name Yahweh saves.
Lord Jesus, you came to save me. Your incarnation gives me hope. I marvel at your unexpected arrival in the small hill town of Bethlehem, to a girl known by few. You came in the form of a helpless baby. You grew up as a humble carpenter's son. Yet, you alone made eternal salvation possible for all humankind in a victory marked by your suffering and dying, but sealed by your rising from the dead. You came to serve others. You were a king hidden among the poor and outcast. You surprised all who were expecting a royal leader who would perform great international military and political feats. Yet, you alone inaugurated God's kingdom here on earth during your brief life. And to this day, it remains strong within the hearts of your people. May we follow the will of God the Father as you did, Lord Jesus, and enjoy eternal life with you.
Today, I will appreciate participating in the spiritual kingdom Jesus inaugurated, and look forward to the day of his return.
Blessed Anthony Grassi, whose spiritual life began in earnest after surviving a lightning strike, pray for us.
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