Different cultures view names differently. In Biblical times names meant something special. They represented a person’s character, reputation, identity. Much thought was given to the choosing of names. Even now, while we may not place as much importance on names in our culture, we still think about a person’s character and our experience with them when we hear their name. In a way, our names represent who we are.
In prophecy about the birth of Jesus, Isaiah gives us some names for our Savior:
Isaiah 9:6 (HCSB)
6 For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
Throughout my life, these names have had personal meaning to me as I’ve grown to know my Savior more intimately. I’ve experienced Him as Wonderful Counselor as the Holy Spirit has guided me through His Word and His still small voice from day-to-day as I make decisions. As Mighty God I’ve seen His power over life. I think about the birth of my children and how I’ve experienced His sovereignty as He’s directed the course of my life. I’ve experienced the comfort and security of my Eternal Father through my intimate relationship with Him and the security of knowing He exists from eternity past and is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As the Prince of Peace, he has given me comfort through the trials of life. The supernatural peace of God which transcends all human comprehension, as Paul describes it in Philippians 4:7.
Each day I learn something new about Jesus as “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” No matter how long I live, I know I will never fully explore the depths of His character. However, I do look forward to the journey of learning.
Sincerely,
Pastor Allen