Tuesday, January 1, 2013

New Year's Day Service: GOSPEL: Luke 2:21

Reading:

And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Commentary: 

In the Church Year, New Year's Day is when we remember the naming of Christ and His first shedding of blood. Counting the 25th of December, January 1st is the eighth day. "And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb." It was the custom of the Jews to officially name their child on the eighth day. As for circumcision, we should remember this was God's covenant with His Church of the Old Testament. It was His way or means whereby a child would be given His grace. Hence circumcision was a Means of Grace, just as Baptism (which replayed circumcision) is a Means of Grace today. As for the name Jesus, this is His personal name while Christ is His official name by way of His office. Jesus means Savior and Christ means Anointed. Every name of God in the Bible carries with it a unique and special meaning for the comfort of God's children. "And His name shall be called Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins."

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