Ancient Words For Today - Matthew 1:21
When Mary told Joseph she was pregnant, but had not been unfaithful to him, he must have been deeply troubled and wondering what to do.
The Gospel of Matthew records what happened next: But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:20-21
The name Jesus (Iēsous) is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Joshua" (yehōshuaʿ), meaning "Yahweh (or Jehovah) is salvation”. The angel instructed Joseph to name Mary’s son Jesus, which foretold His mission to save His people from their sins. “His people” include men and women of all races and nations who have believed in Jesus and placed their trust in Him for forgiveness of their sin and for their salvation and eternal life.
As we approach the Passover and Easter holidays, we should remember that Jesus was born to be our savior, and that His death on the cross and resurrection was the means by which He accomplished it. Jesus truly is the Heart of the Season for those who believe in Him!