Philippians 2:10-11

Stop.

Take a moment to breathe and still your mind. Reflect on the name of Jesus. What does it mean for you? Let yourself say it to yourself or out loud. Let it be a prayer.

Listen.

So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. – Philippians 2:10-11

Reflect.

Today, the church recognizes the feast of the Holy Name of Jesus. Some traditions actually observed it on January 1. The day doesn’t mean to imply that there’s something intrinsically holy about the name itself. Rather, it reminds us that Jesus’ name is worth of honor and care, that his name means something, and that we are called to use his name for worship, prayer, proclamation, and praise.

Consider the reading from Philippians that we just heard. This comes that the end of what is known as the Christ Hymn, a beautiful prayer pointing to Jesus’ self-emptying love that calls us all to a life of humility and compassion. The power that comes with Jesus’ name isn’t a power that dominates or demands. In Jesus’ name, there is peace and joy born of love and trust.

It can also be a reminder to us about how we use our Savior’s name. The Second Commandment reminds us not to take it in vain. This means not using it to curse or swear, but even more, using it to bless and be blessed. We recognize and revere Jesus when we use his name respectfully and earnestly. Jesus’ name will always be holy, no matter how we use it, but we can live that out in our daily lives.

Pray.

I praise you, God, in the holy name of Jesus. Make my life, both words and actions, be a reflection of him. May I always speak his name in joy, hope, and trust so that others might come to know him, too. Amen.

Carry On.

How often do you say Jesus’ name in a day? In a week? In a month? Pay attention to it and see for yourself. How does that feel to you?