Watch out!
From today’s Scripture: “And they shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’”—Mt 1:23
What’s in a name? Every parent knows the deliberation that goes into naming a child. Catholics, of course, are looking among Christian names, for a baptismal name. Then there are the family concerns. Should we name our baby after one of our parents? Perhaps an aunt or uncle? A parent’s close friend? Or just some nice-sounding name one of the parents-to-be has come across somewhere?
Discussions, really discernment, will go on and on, and for the smart couple, may actually be in private. Too many cooks spoil the broth!
Then comes the baby, and the answer: Rose, after St. Rose of Lima, or John “God’s beloved one,” or perhaps Theresa, after the Little Flower, or George, after Uncle George. Each of these names is packed with meaning—hopefully a lifetime of meaning. So when Mary and Joseph name their child Jesus Emmanuel, they are seeing deep meaning. Their son is a fulfillment of prophecy, and his incarnation is both a sign and sacrament. As his name promises, God is with us.
Let us pray: Jesus, Emmanuel, open my heart wider and wider as we approach Christmas, the feast of your Incarnation. You are with me. Help me today to see you in the face of everyone I meet.
Today’s author is John Feister, an award-winning journalist and member of Glenmary’s Communications Team.
Free delivery! Sign up to receive this by email in English or in Spanish