Naming a baby is difficult. How do you find a name that is cutesy enough for the toddler years but strong enough for a powerful executive?

Name selection requires several considerations. What are some possible nicknames? How will those nicknames play out on an elementary playground or a high school basketball court? You want to consider how the initials will look, more so if you’re a southerner into monograms. I always liked to consider the actual meaning of the name as well. For example, my oldest is named Allison which means noble one. My youngest is Kaitlynn which means pure.

In the past couple of years, I have staked claim to some naming rights. My niece has found herself more thrilled with pregnancy than the overwhelming naming task. To keep her procrastination at bay, I text her name suggestions almost weekly.  She replies: “Other kids will think Oscar lives in a trashcan.” Or “That’s the name of my cousin’s son.”

Since I am fascinated with naming babies, I find it pretty cool that the attributes of baby Jesus were clear way before he was born. The prophecy of Messiah’s birth included a plethora of names.

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

~Isaiah 9:6 NLT

When we unpack those attributes, we see exactly who this tiny baby was born to be and his significance to us today.

First, Wonderful Counselor speaks to his ability to lead us. He directs our paths with wisdom and truth. His guidance is far superior to other counselors and advisors we may have in our life.

Mighty God makes the point of him being a hero because he was born to overcome sin and death.

Everlasting Father speaks to him being an ever-present father figure. A good father who sits in authority, one who protects us, and lives in the hearts of his children.

Finally, Prince of Peace shows his ability to ensure our well-being. Peace points to physical and emotional health, our overall wellness, and our prosperity and happiness.

This baby—the Christ-child born on this day–came to save, redeem, and restore people to God. That was the entire purpose of his birthday that we celebrate today and each year.

So, take a moment to imagine Mary looking down into that tiny face of a great Savior. Think about the conversations she and Joseph may have held both before and after the baby came into the world. And, then imagine the moment they make it official: “His Name is Jesus.”

Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived.

~Luke 2:21 NLT

What a perfect name! Jesus is Hebrew and means “deliverer” and “rescuer.” Jesus is truly the Name above all others.

May every attribute of Jesus and his Name rest upon you and within you this Christmas Day.

What are some ways you can trust Jesus more after considering his pre-birth titles?

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the beautiful gift of Your Son, and for everything he is to me. Help me to remember His purpose and to celebrate Jesus as my deliverer and rescuer today and every day.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Genre: Nonfiction

Copyright2021: Naming Rights: Cynthia Mendenhall: All Rights Reserved