Judges 13:17-18 “17 Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, ‘What is your name, so that when your words come to pass, we may honor you?’ 18 But the angel of the LORD said to him, ‘Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?’”

Philip Bliss wrote a hymn in 1874 entitled “Wonderful Words of Life.” The chorus reads, “Beautiful words, wonderful words, Wonderful words of life.” I couldn’t help but think of this hymn when I read these verses. The Angel of the Lord (Jesus in the OT) appears to Manoah and his wife and when asked his name says “it is wonderful.”

Truly the name of Jesus is wonderful. His name is above all names. His name carries with it the reminder that His birth, life, death and resurrection changed human history. Even the calendar is based on his life.

When you picked out a name for your child, did you research its meaning? I bet you did. My first name, Carl, means strong and manly. That fits me exactly. Haha. Seriously, that name was my maternal grandfather’s name. I am proud to carry it even though I never knew him. Do your children know why they were named what they were named? They should know that.

But more importantly, we want our children to carry the name of Jesus wherever they go. They should be known as a Christ follower. When people think of them they should think of Jesus. How can you as Mom and Dad help them to do that? By carrying the name of Jesus yourself. You need to be known that way. People should see the “Wonderful Name” emblazoned on our forehead (you know what I mean).

Look at the words of the last verse of that hymn: “Sweetly echo the Gospel call, Wonderful words of life; Offer pardon and peace to all, Wonderful words of life; Jesus, only Savior, Sanctify us forever.” Amen!