And His Name Is …

“ … And you shall call His name … JESUS!” Matthew 1:21

I watched the clips of the announcement of the new Pope and had several thoughts run through my mind as watched with anticipation as to who would be named the new pastor of the Catholic Church.

I watched thousands of people gathered together – watching the excitement on their faces as they stood on tippy-toe hoping to catch a glimpse of their Pope.

When the lights of the Vatican came there was thrill in the air. You could cut it with a knife. The people were anticipating the curtain opening at any moment. The crowd were excited even about seeing a shadow of the one would be leading them.

The moment came when the curtain parted and the crowed went crazy. And then the moment came when one of the cardinals announced “We have a Pope!” And then he uttered the new Pontiff’s name.

The crowd went crazy. People were jumping up and down. Some clasped their hands to pray. Others reached up to the heavens with tears streaming down their faces as Francis stepped to greet his people.

So many thoughts ran through my mind. Then the words of the Apostle Paul came to my mind: “Therefore God has highly exalted HIM (JESUS) and bestowed on Him the name that is ABOVE EVERY NAME, so that at the name of JESUS every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father!” – Philippians 2:9-10

One day the GREAT SHEPHERD will appear and what a glorious day that will be. And every eye shall see Him and truly every knee will bow!

But until then – do I get that excited about worshipping Him now? When I gather together with the body of Christ am I that excited to even see a shadow of His glory? Or have I become so accustomed or familiar with Him that it seems like I go on auto-pilot?

If that is where you are – it’s time to fall in love with Jesus again. Cry out to Him – get on your knees and ask Him to show You a fresh glimpse of Him today. He’s ready! Are you?

Running the race with joy,

Bill Welte
President/CEO

Daily Bible Reading: Job 32-33; 1 Corinthians 11:1-16

Quote of the day: May the strength of God guide us. May the wisdom of God instruct us, May the hand of God protect us, May the word of God direct us. Patrick of Ireland

Bible Memory: When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies; I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments. Psalm 119:59-60