"His Name is Wonderful"

 “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

The Christmas season is my favorite time of year. Memories of my childhood flood my mind with every Christmas song I hear. Those especially close to my heart are the hymns. Christmas Eve candlelight services and the joy of the children’s programs carry their own special blessing. There is a peace and closeness to the Savior that gives comfort in the midst of a troubled world.

Too often, we get caught up in the material side of the season. The gift-giving, the party-going, and the decorations. While these are fun, they can also distract from the purpose of celebration. Many times, we can fall short in our gift-giving, but God gave us His most precious and perfect gift. His Son.

One of my favorite hymns, “His Name is Wonderful,” was composed by Audrey Mieir in 1955. Watching the children’s Nativity scene during their Christmas program at church and following the sermon afterward, went deep into her soul. At the conclusion of reading the scripture Isaiah 9:6, her pastor lifted his hands, closed his eyes, and said “His name is wonderful.” Mrs. Mieir quickly wrote the words on the flyleaf of her Bible three times, then added the name of her Lord. A few days later, she completed all of the music and a fuller description of Jesus.

Not only are the words of this song a personal testimony of the relationship between Mrs. Mieir and Jesus, but it also captures the testimony of every Christian. How praiseworthy He is. Let us bow down, love, and adore Him.

Audrey Mieir died in 1996 at the age of 80. Some of her last words were: “‘His Name is Wonderful’ will outlive the chubby human hands chosen to write a few black notes on five lines and four spaces. But it will never outlive the Father who glories in His Son’s name and who glories in our praise.”

Dear Lord,
     You are the Word made flesh and I’m filled with wonder and praise. I bow before Your throne of grace and proclaim You King.