Christmas
When the eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus—the name given by the angel before he was conceived. Luke 2:21 (CSB)
The Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 4, “God sent his son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive the adoption of sons.” To meet the requirements of the Old Testament law, the Savior of the world humbled Himself to save us. In accordance with the law, Jesus was circumcised to fulfill what was required. In the New Testament, we celebrate our baptism into Christ because He has fulfilled all that His Heavenly Father required, so that “Whoever believes and is baptized shall be saved.”
As baptized children of the Lord, eagerly awaiting the return of Jesus, we strive to live lives that reflect our love and gratitude for what our Savior has accomplished for us. Redeemed from the world, the devil, and our sinful flesh, we live for Christ here on earth while looking forward to being with Him in eternity.
Eight days after Christ’s birth, He was given the name Jesus just as the angel directed Mary in Luke 1:31. The name Jesus is derived from the Hebrew name Yeshua (or Joshua), which means “Yahweh (the LORD) saves.” This name reflects Jesus’ mission, sent by God to save humanity from their sins.
Jesus has saved us, restoring our relationship with our Heavenly Father to what it was for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden before the fall into sin. May we daily give thanks and praise to our Redeemer for what He has done for us and all mankind.
Redeemer, come! I open wide My heart to Thee; here, Lord, abide!
Let me Thine inner presence feel, Thy grace and love in me reveal;
Thy Holy Spirit guide us on Until our glorious goal is won.
Eternal praise and fame We offer to Thy name.
The Lutheran Hymnal 73:5