Naming the Baby

Here we are, after the exciting announcement of Jesus’ birth, and the shepherds coming to see the baby. We’re close to the end of traditional Christmas celebrations, edging into a new year that we hope might be somewhat better than the year we were in.

According to historical records, the wise men are still following the star. Mary and Joseph will have moved from the stable to a place in the town of Bethlehem. They still have to present their first born to the priest. They know the baby is to be named Jesus, but perhaps he is not officially named until the priest blesses him.

This child will have more names in his life than any of us call our children. Besides his name, Jesus, he is God’s son. He is named Saviour; Light of the World; Immanuel (Matthew 1:23); Lamb of God (John 1:29); Alpha and Omega (Revelation 22:13); King of the Jews (Matthew 27:37); Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6); The Bread of Life (John 6:35); and The Redeemer (Isaiah 59:20). Jesus would also be called Shepherd, one who leads his flock of sheep who have a tendency to wander and need direction.

Danger was still coming. King Herod wanted to know where the baby was born and pretended he wanted to worship him. But we know the truth about Herod. He was jealous and out to destroy anyone who would presume to take his place.

Joseph and the wise men were warned separately in a dream. The wise men were advised to go home a different way. Joseph and Mary needed to leave town quickly because there were people seeking to harm him. God was protecting his own. We know what happened next, that Rachel wept for her children and could not be consoled. That’s probably the saddest part of the whole story.

I picture Joseph and Mary leaving Bethlehem in the dark of an early morning. Maybe they sold some of the gifts for travel money. After all they had a long way to go and would have to provide food and shelter for themselves. Had they planned contingency funds for such a flight? We simply don’t know. Did they look over their shoulders hoping the soldiers weren’t following them? Did they sometimes have to hide when the baby was hungry and wanting to be fed?

The important thing was that God provided for them and kept them safe on their long journey. God let them know when it was safe to return to their homeland. Jesus would have more dangers ahead in his life, but God was always with him.

God is there for us too. Following Jesus is the hardest but most important thing we ever do. As in the hymn Turn Your Eyes  Upon Jesus.