by Pastor Rich Carlson

“You are to give him the name Jesus,” the angel had instructed Joseph (Matt. 1:20).

God, the angel, and Joseph were intentional as they gave this baby His name. “And he [Joseph] gave him the name Jesus” (Matt. 1:25). 

Names were far more significant back then than they are now. The name Jesus comes from the Hebrew name Joshua which means, “Jehovah is salvation.” The message was clear: Jesus came to provide salvation.

In Matthew 1:22, reference is made to the prophet Isaiah, who foretold the birth of this special child. However, Isaiah said Jesus’ name would be Immanuel, which means, “God with us” (Isaiah 7:14). This is an amazing concept—God with us, providing salvation for us. That’s a succinct summary of the salvation story!

I am reminded of two texts that add even more significance to that message:

• “And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Acts 2:21).

• “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20).

The entire universe must have been looking on, holding its breath, wondering what humanity would do with this newborn baby. Perhaps the universe already knew what it took humans awhile to learn—if we believe and call on Him, He offers us His presence and salvation. It’s all ours if we only believe in and call on that beautiful name.

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. “God Is Faithful” is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.