Psalm of the Day: Psalm 18
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 11:1-11
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:21-24
A point which demands our attention in this passage, is the NAME by which our Lord was called, by God's special command.
"Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named JESUS, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived." The word Jesus simply means "Savior" or [Jehovah Saves]. It is the same word as "Joshua" in the Old Testament. The selection of this name is very striking and instructive. The Son of God came down from Heaven to be not only the Savior — but the King, the Law-giver, the Prophet, the Priest, the Judge of fallen man. Had He chosen any one of these titles, He would only have chosen that which was His own. But He passed by them all. He selects a name which speaks of mercy, grace, help, and deliverance for a lost world. It is as a Deliverer and Redeemer that He desires principally to be known.
Let us often ask ourselves, what our own hearts know of the Son of God. Is He our Jesus — our Savior? This is the question on which our salvation turns. Let it not content us to know Christ as One who wrought mighty miracles, and spoke as never man spoke; or to know Him as One who is fully God, and will one day judge the world. Let us see that we know Him experimentally — as our Deliverer from the guilt and power of sin, and our Redeemer from Satan's bondage. Let us strive to be able to say, "This is my Friend! I was dead — and He gave me life! I was a prisoner — and He set me free."
Precious indeed is this name of Jesus to all true believers! It is "as ointment poured forth." (Song of Solomon 1:3.) The name of Jesus restores them when conscience-troubled. It comforts them when cast down. It smoothes their pillows in sickness. It supports them in the hour of death. "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it, and is safe." (Proverbs 18:10.)
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to reflect upon how much I actually know Jesus as a real, living person. Help me to love him as my Savior.
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
Comments