January 3, 2026 // Optional Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Luke 2:21-24
Reflect on the Word //
I sat across from a new doctor and described my symptoms.
“Jesus Christ,” he exhaled, shaking his head. My heart squeezed within me.
While I appreciated that he was taking my pain seriously, it took me a minute to regain my footing. It was jarring to hear someone take the Lord’s name in vain.
In the past fews years, I’ve adopted the pious practice of bowing my head at Mass when the name of Jesus is said. It’s a subtle, simple gesture that reminds me, both body and soul, of the reality that the name of Jesus is different from other words, other names, for His name alone is a prayer.
Today we celebrate the Optional Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus. The name of our precious baby Messiah is pronounced in today’s Gospel when Mary and Joseph brought Him to the temple to be circumcised. There “the child was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb” (Luke 2:21).
The name of the Lord entrusted to Moses, a Hebrew name which means “I AM,” is too sacred for the Jews to even pronounce, for His presence and power are contained in His Name. The same is true when we speak the name of Jesus.
We have been given a name to call upon—a name full of power and presence. That name reveals identity and mission, for Jesus means “God Saves.” And that name belongs to a Baby, a Man, a Savior we can know personally and love intimately.
We’ve all had the experience of someone using our name (usually our full name) in frustration or anger. In such moments, our own names can feel like a curse. May we strive never to pronounce our precious Savior’s name in vain, but to only ever invoke Jesus with a heart full of love and confidence.
Relate to the Lord // Make the name of Jesus your prayer today. Pray Jesus in your heart or aloud throughout the day with love and gratitude.
Beth Davis is a lover of Jesus, a retired youth minister, the Director of Formation for Blessed is She. She is passionate about teaching women how to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus in prayer through writing, speaking, and mentorship. Her favorite things include being the favorite aunt to her five niece and nephews, making friends everywhere she goes, and whatever book she’s currently reading.
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