The Name Jesus is very powerful and beautiful, but also very Challenging

Gospel Thoughts

34th Week : Wednesday

GOSPEL Lk 21: 12-19

First Reading - Rev 15:1-4

*The Name Jesus is very powerful and beautiful, but also very Challenging*

*1) The meaning of Jesus*

The name Jesus is derived from the Hebrew name Yeshua which means "to deliver; to rescue."

In other words the name Jesus means "Savior." 

It is the same name as Joshua in the Old Testament. And it is given to our Lord because "He saves His people from their sins," (Matthew 1:21).

*2) The Written name of Jesus was found only on the Cross*

For the first time we see the written name of Jesus on the Cross, after His crucifixion. 

Until then we don't have any proof that the name of Jesus was written in any documents

*Jesus of Nazareth, King of Jews* were the words which were found in the Cross, and for the first time we see the name of Jesus in the written form on the Cross.

*3) Name of Jesus on the Cross, gives us another side of Christian Faith and Life*

The Cross and Name of Jesus show us the another side of Christian life. 

The Cross is the symbol of suffering, and death. 

Today gospel recounts the name of Jesus and its consequences.

*4) Because of my name*

Twice this expression comes in today's Gospel. 

*What happens because of Jesus' name?*

Because of Jesus' name the followers 

will be seized

The followers will be persecuted

The followers will be handed over to the synagogues 

The followers will be put in prisons,

The followers will be dragged before kings and governors

The followers will be handed over by parents,

   brothers, relatives, and friends to be put to death 

The followers will be hated by all

All the above things will take place for only one reason that is *Because of the name Jesus*

*5) What is the Reward for remaining faithful to the name Jesus?*

It will help one to give testimony

It will help a person to gain wisdom and to defend ones faith

It will help to put the adversaries into shame 

It will be the instrument of self defense and nothing to prepare for self-defense

It will protect the follower from all harm *not a hair on your head will be destroyed*

*6) Two sides of Jesus name*

Jesus means Saviour - one who saves is Jesus 

Saving act is always challenging and difficult. 

Saving can be done only after fighting a battle and defeating the enemy. 

So we need to remember the two sides of Jesus' name and mission. 

The same is applicable to the followers too. 

Cross is the sign of challenges, suffering death and then victory through resurrection.

Same is applicable to life. 

*7) Am I ready to follow the name Jesus*

There is no Christian without the name Jesus. The name Jesus and the person Jesus is the integral mark of a Christian

There is nothing beyond Jesus and the name of Jesus 

Am I ready to face the challenges because of the name Jesus in my life?

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*