Pastor's Corner: Wearing the name of Jesus

“All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.”

— II Thessalonians 1:5

Before I leave for work each morning, my husband Rod and I have devotions together. First he prays and then I do.

After our praise offering, our gratitude for answered prayer, our requests on behalf of our daughters and their families, our friends and relatives; we most often conclude, “Father, may we be worthy to wear the name of Jesus Christ. When others see us, may they see you.”

Wearing the name of Jesus is not something to be taken lightly. The apostle Paul admonished us in Philippians 2:5-11 “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on the cross. Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the 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.”

This is one of the most breathtaking passages in all Scripture. These few short verses capture some of the most amazing truths that have ever confronted the minds of men.

What is the significance of the name, “Jesus?”

The angel told Joseph to name Mary’s son Jesus. The name is not unique in the Bible. It is special because it means “God our Savior. Jesus is Immanuel, or “God with us.” He came to earth as a man in order to die in our place and become our Savior. This is why the angel said, “You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

The name of Jesus reminds us about the amazing humility of the Son of God when He came as a man to die. As His followers, we must also strive to show the selfless humility that Jesus demonstrated while on earth. Jesus is not just a name of unmatched humility; it is a name of infinite exaltation. His name is glorified far above every name.

And when we choose to wear it we should do so with pride … and humbleness.

(Ila McClenahan is Northern Montana Health Care pastoral care coordinator.)