This repost Friday was originally published October 27, 2023.
John 1:4 “…his life brought light to everyone.”
Have you ever really paid attention when a little child says, “Jesus”. That is truly, one of the sweetest sounds in the world. There is an awe in young children for Jesus that is undisturbed by trouble. Young children haven’t lived long enough, in most cases, to abuse Christ’s name. They could never conjure up resentment or disdain for Him.
Mark 10:16 “And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
Photo’s Courtesy of Sarah Paul and Anna Benade
There is another group that says Jesus’ name in a uniquely lovely way. Elderly believers have a tender but powerful way of saying our Savior’s name. They have lived through many joys and sorrows and have learned the peace given by the name, Jesus. They know it deeply and count on it. They trust it and are empowered by it. They are made courageous by it and endure. They are loved by it, and they are saved by it.
“…I will sustain you…”
Isaiah 46:4 “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.“
God is so good to us. He deserves our very best each day. Yet, we fail. Every age group should esteem Jesus.
Not every believer has a problem with misusing God’s name, but some believers do. But there are other ways to offend God’s name. Did you know that using phrases such as “Oh Lord” or “OMG” is an example of abusing His name? So, for myself and any believer who is in the habit of using expressions with God’s name etc. keep in mind, even though that seems harmless, it is wrong.
Also, there is a very common offense to Jesus that many believers are guilty of. Whenever we call people derogatory names or refer to them as trash, scum, losers or anything else demeaning, we are offending God. The reason is clear. God loves everyone. He created every person. Worthless or offensive language, thoughts, deeds or motives are all offensive to the name of Jesus.
Often, I am reminded of my own smallness in relation to Jesus. Psalm 144:3-4
I am so grateful to understand that a close personal relationship with Jesus, who Himself is equally God, includes having His Spirit living in me, to correct me and teach me. I want to be willing to hear His voice as He helps me learn the need for total reverence before God.
We have turned Jesus into a weakling in our hearts and minds. We have purposefully diminished Him to our level. What comes out of our mouths reveals that we are apathetic at least, if not haughty at worst. Luke 6:45
Without Jesus, we would be hopeless and without light in our lives. Think about the new commandment that Jesus gave prior to Calvary. You will see how following His direction will help us want to live to honor God in all we do and say.
A passage of scripture that helps us see Jesus is found in the Gospel of John, chapter 1. It is linked below. Find your favorite translation or read what I have provided. But I hope that another day won’t pass before you read at least the first few verses. This passage fully displays the grand nature and love of God and Jesus, His Son.
John 1:1-18
Resources
Getting the Seed out of the basket and into hungry hearts. Matthew 13 