Not Just a Name, A Mission

Let’s be honest, these days, baby names are a whole thing. People spend months searching for just the right one. Something that sounds cute, unique, meaningful… or maybe something that just looks good on a onesie. And hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. But when I think about the name Jesus?

Whew. That name didn’t come from a Pinterest board. That name came from Heaven, with purpose.

Matthew 1:21 says, “And she will bring forth a son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Did you catch that? The angel didn’t give Joseph a suggestion; he gave him an assignment. “You shall call His name Jesus because…”

Because what?

Because He came to save, that name wasn’t just something beautiful to whisper in a lullaby. It was the very banner of His purpose. His name meant “The Lord saves.” And every time someone said His name, Jesus, they were declaring exactly what He came to do.

Can you imagine?

From the moment Mary held Him, the name she spoke carried power. It didn’t just identify who He was, it revealed why He came. No confusion. No fluff. Just purpose. And I don’t know about you, but that stirs something in me.

Jesus’ name was never meant to blend in with the popular names of His day. It wasn’t trendy or fashionable. It was eternal. Chosen by God. Spoken through angels. Rooted in redemption.

This is why Christmas is so much more than gifts and gatherings. It’s not just the story of a baby being born; it’s the moment salvation was spoken into the world.

Before the miracles, before the cross, before the empty tomb, there was a name. A holy, powerful name that told us what was coming.

So this season, as lights twinkle and carols play, I’m reminding myself not to whisper His name like it’s just another tradition. No, I want to speak His name boldly, Jesus. Because that name carries freedom, that name breaks chains. That name covers shame and brings healing.

Jesus.

When I say it, I’m not just calling on a historical figure, I’m declaring hope. I’m proclaiming rescue. I’m speaking life into dark places, peace into anxiety, and redemption into every broken part of me.

That name still saves.

So while the world is caught up in the glitter and noise of the season, I’m choosing to center my celebration around the One whose name is above every name. And I invite you to do the same.

Say it with me. Jesus.

Let it rise from your heart. Let it echo in your home. Let it interrupt your fear and remind you that salvation didn’t come wrapped in paper; it came wrapped in flesh.

So no, His name wasn’t cute or trendy. It wasn’t meant to fit in.

It was meant to save.