Advent Devotion for December 2, 2019

Reading: Exodus 3:13–15

Today, we have little understanding of the meaning of names. We usually give children names based on pop culture or for the sake of an important person, be it a saint, a family member, or dear friend. However, names in Scripture reveal something about the person or describe their character. Adam comes from the Hebrew word for dirt, for he was formed out of the dust of the earth. Jesus is a combination of words which mean “God is salvation” or “God saves.” In our text, God reveals his name to be “I AM.” He is the one who exists by Himself. He is defined by being. We are defined as creatures who depend on a creator.

In the same way, the Scriptures give us a rich vocabulary to describe the Savior. He is called Messiah and Christ—both meaning “anointed.” He is Wisdom, the Word, the Son of Man, and the Son of God. He is the Rose of Sharon, the Son of David, the Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor, and I AM. And while these names are beautiful and reveal aspects of our Lord, the most wonderful name of God is that which is placed upon us in our baptism. He is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This is the most complete name given to His beloved children and, by it, we are made heirs to His throne of grace.

Prayer: Almighty God, creator of heaven and earth, who has revealed Yourself to Your creation in names and descriptions, and manifest Yourself to us most fully in the incarnation of Your beloved Son, grant that we be given the eyes of faith to see Your salvation and trust in the You, the One who Is, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Hymn LSB 334:3

We hail Thee as our Savior Lord,
Our refuge and our great reward;
Without Thy grace we waste away
Like flowers that wither and decay.

(Mark Kranz, Sem IV)