Tag: pastor stephen dedman

And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬

The significance of a name often carries great weight, and in the story of Christmas, the name of Jesus is central.

The name “Jesus” is derived from the Greek name “Iēsous,” which, in turn, comes from the Hebrew name “Yeshua” or “Yehoshua.” The name carries profound significance because it means “Yahweh saves” or “Yahweh is salvation.”

The announcement in Matthew 1:21 emphasizes the purpose and mission of Jesus. His name reflects His role as the Savior who comes to deliver and rescue people from the consequences of sin. The birth of Jesus fulfills the long-awaited promise of a Messiah, the One who would bring salvation to humanity.

So, the significance of the name “Jesus” in Matthew 1:21 is tied to its meaning, indicating that Jesus is the embodiment of God’s saving grace and the fulfillment of God’s plan to reconcile humanity to Himself through the forgiveness of sins.

Reflect on the power of Jesus in your life. Consider the areas where you need His saving grace, and embrace the hope that His name brings. Let the awareness of His purpose shape your decisions, attitudes, and interactions with others.

Pray

Dear Lord, help me to understand the depth of Your purpose in my life. In moments of weakness and sin, may I turn to You, the One who saves. Guide me to fully embrace the freedom that comes from knowing You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!
‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬

As the shepherds were out in the fields, suddenly an angel appeared to them and announced the birth of Jesus. Then they heard a multitude of angels singing and praising God. Heaven was rejoicing loud and proud.

Jesus is God’s goodwill toward humanity and He came to bring peace that surpasses understanding. Even during trying circumstances we can have the assurance that through Christ, we can experience peace in our hearts.

Take a moment each day to reflect on this promise and intentionally seek the peace that comes from a relationship with Jesus. We may never see peace on earth but as long as we have Jesus in our heart, we have a peace that helps us overcome and endure everything we face.

Do you have peace with God through the person of Jesus Christ? Praise God just as the heavenly host rejoiced and let the world know that you have peace.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the source of true peace. In a world filled with turmoil, help me to experience the peace that only You can provide. Grant me the wisdom to turn to You in moments of distress, trusting in Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭19‬

In the quiet moments after the miraculous birth of Jesus, Mary did something profound – she pondered. She took time to reflect, to consider the significance of the events that had unfolded before her. In the hustle and bustle of our lives, we can learn from Mary’s example to embrace the gift of Christ with a reflective heart.

It’s easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. This verse reminds us to pause and intentionally ponder the wonderful gift of Jesus. If it wasn’t for Jesus, we wouldn’t be celebrating this season with joy.

This Christmas season, make an attempt to do something different or start a new tradition. Make each day leading up to Christmas count by reflecting on the miraculous birth of our Savior.

Take a few moments today to reflect on the profound love God demonstrated by sending His Son. Allow the truth of Christmas to penetrate your heart and transform your perspective. How has God’s love changed your life?

Pray

Lord, in the midst of the busyness that often surrounds this season, I come before You with a heart of gratitude. Help me to follow Mary’s example, to keep and ponder these things in my heart. Give me moments of quiet reflection, where I can fully embrace the depth of Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.