Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Matthew 1:21 You are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.
THE SWEET NAME OF JESUS
As we look into the mirror of the Commandments we see numerous instances where we have fallen short of God's glory. We recognize our spiritual need, our need for forgiveness. With a contrite heart we are moved by the Spirit to approach the throne of grace in humble confession: "Heavenly Father, I've not done very well in fulfilling Your holy will in the matter of protecting my neighbor's good name. Many times I've spoken things I wish I'd never said. I have revealed the faults of others when it would have been better to keep quiet. There have been times when my neighbor injured me by loveless words or deeds, and thoughts of anger and revenge welled up in my heart, when I ought to have 'just let it go.' Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner!"
The Good News is that the Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love. He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve. He is rich in mercy and has made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our transgressions. He placed His own living Word of love, His Son Jesus, into a stable for us. He had Him pierced on a cross to purify us from all sin, including our sins of the mouth and tongue.
Because Jesus committed no such sins (when His enemies hurled insults at Him, He didn't retaliate or make any threats); because He calmly entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly, patiently bearing our sins in His own body on the tree--our sins, which were as scarlet, have been made as white as snow. Our transgressions, which were red as crimson, have become as white fluffy wool. We stand before our holy God, through faith in His sinless Son, as privileged members of the Holy Christian Church, the Communion of Saints.
Dear name! The Rock on which I build, My Shield and Hiding-place;
My never-failing Treasury filled With boundless stores of grace.
By You my prayers acceptance gain Although with sin defiled.
Satan accuses me in vain, For God calls me His child.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 364:3-4)
