On the third of January Franciscans celebrate the Holy Name of Jesus. Saint Luke and Matthew insist that God chose the baby's name. Mary and Joseph obediently gave him the name. Jesus is rich with meaning as it’s essentially the same name as Joshua, meaning, “The Lord is salvation.” The name first went to the warrior who led the Hebrews after Moses died. The name Jesus also belonged to Jesus ben Sirach, who wrote the Book of Ecclesiasticus. Though not uncommon, it was rich with history when the Babe was given that name.
The Acts of the Apostles especially promotes the use of that name for prayer and intercession:
- 2.38: Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- 3.6: But Peter said, ‘I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk.’
- 3.16: And by faith in his name, his name itself has made this man strong, whom you see and know; and the faith that is through Jesus has given him this perfect health in the presence of all of you.
- 4.18: So they called them and ordered them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.
Devotion to the Name of Jesus reappeared in the middle ages with the preaching of the Franciscan Saint Bernadine of Siena. He encouraged people to add the name of Jesus to the short prayer, the Ave Maria, which would eventually evolve into our Hail Mary. He also founded hundreds of peace-making societies in Italy with that Name, in an effort to curb the violence of a war-like society.
More recently, I’m sure you know, the Holy Name Society was founded to discourage the abuse of the name. Catholic men sometimes joke that if this or that situation continues they might have to resign from the Holy Name!
In this age of identity theft we begin to appreciate the value and importance of a good name. It can open doors, make connections and draw create societies. During this coming year let us call upon the Name of Jesus reverently, often and with confidence.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.