Very soon the world will be singing Christmas Carols. Many of them will have Old Testament names for Jesus such as the ones found in Isaiah, “Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, and The Prince of Peace.”

But there is so much more behind this. Did you know that “the phrase “in the name of the Lord” appears…approximately 109 times in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, with 88 instances in the Old Testament and 21 in the New Testament.”? Google AI.

God takes His name very seriously. In fact, in Exodus 20:7 the Third Commandment reads, “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.” To God, names are intentional and they mean something.

In my opinion, one of the greatest pieces of music written is Handel’s “Messiah.” The power & complexities of the music are simply majestic. But did you know, “Facing career struggles, Handel composed it rapidly in just 24 days and it premiered in Dublin in 1742 as a benefit for local charities. After an initially modest reception in London, the work grew in popularity to become one of the most famous choral pieces in Western music.”? Also did you know that “The tradition of standing during the “Hallelujah” chorus is widely believed to stem from King George II, who purportedly rose from his seat at the London premiere, compelling the rest of the audience to stand out of etiquette.” Google AI.

So, what do we know about the name Messiah? From Google we learn, “The word “messiah” comes from the Hebrew root verb mashach (“to anoint”).” Do you remember the story of Mary who bathed the feet of Jesus with precious oil? Did you know, “This term originally referred to anyone consecrated with holy oil for a position of authority.” God used Mary to anoint Jesus. “It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.” John 11:2

 In Judaism, “Messiah” also refers to a future leader who is expected to bring an age of peace, justice, and redemption. Key beliefs: This includes the restoration of Jerusalem and the Temple, the return of the Jewish exiles, and the establishment of a messianic kingdom. Christian interpretation: In Christianity, Jesus is identified as the Messiah, the “anointed one” who fulfills these prophecies, bringing both spiritual salvation and a heavenly kingdom, according to The Gospel Coalition.”

In the New Testament we find the two references to Jesus being the Messiah in John 1:41, “He (Andrew) first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ).” And in John 4:25, when the Samaritan woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When He comes, He will tell us all things.” And Jesus told you & I everything we need to know & follow Him.

So, when you hear the word Messiah, remember it is a word God intentionally created to reveal to us about His Precious Son.

The Messiah has told us, “Look, I am coming soon!” Revelation 22:12 Be Ready!