The Importance of a Name

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)

I have yet to meet a young couple who is not excited about expecting a baby. They spend the months leading up to the birth in preparation for the blessed arrival. Perhaps the most important preparation is choosing a name for the coming child.

Names hold a special meaning. Whether carrying on a family name to the next generation or adding a favorite one that will be unique to the new addition, the parents plan carefully. The child will bear the chosen name all of his/her life.

As a dog breeder, I also felt a responsibility in choosing appropriate names for puppies. I needed to choose wisely, because these puppies would represent my breeding and kennel. The name would stamp the pedigree of future generations in the show ring.

Names are important.

About 700 years before Jesus’ birth, the prophet Isaiah reassured the Israelites that there was a savior coming. He declared that this child would be the son of God and defined by several names. Each name held importance; each identified Jesus as the promised Messiah.

Now may be a good time to consider the personality of Jesus and reflect on the names by which He is known. I know Him best as Savior.

Dear Lord, thank you for showing us who You are through Your many names. You are truly the beginning and the end.