The Name
You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. —Matthew 1:21
We are struck with awe when we consider the beneficial impact Jesus has had on the world. His words and life have given birth to the countless humanitarian efforts such as the first hospitals, public education, modern universities, and democracy. We would still be in the dark ages without Jesus. For all these blessings, we are so thankful to Jesus.Christ.
If you were to select some of the most influential figures throughout the ages, men and women who have affected millions of lives, what names would be on your list? I think one name that would appear on all our lists, without exception, would be the name of Jesus.
Reynolds Price, writing about "Jesus of Nazareth" in Time magazine (December 1999), declared that "a serious argument can be made that no one else's life has proved remotely as powerful and enduring as that of Jesus." So when this Man, born in a small village 2000 years ago, declared, "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12) and "My words will by no means pass away" (Luke 21:33), He was making predictions that history has verified.
Jesus has undeniably been the world's most influential Person, but has He impacted your life personally? Do you put Him in the same class as other influential figures, or has He transformed your life? Unlike all other famous people who eventually died, Jesus is still miraculously alive.
Is Jesus your Savior and constant companion? If He isn't, He can be. Call on His name in faith and invite Him into your life. Then the name of Jesus will become to you the most precious of names.
Knowing that Jesus is the most influential Person who ever lived does not benefit you unless you acknowledge Him as your own Savior and Lord.
He is alive here and now. Call on His name. There is power in the name of Jesus.
