Mark 10:45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (KJV)

There is a thought that the simple things in life contain the most powerful messages. The chorus of the hymn Precious Name is very simple, and yet strikingly eloquent. The author, though bed-ridden and in pain most of her life, was a vibrant Christian. Her statement to her friends and visitors was that the name of Jesus was a shield to all the temptations and troubles that life or the enemy could throw at her. I find this an amazing statement from one so afflicted. The simple thought is repeated twice, maybe to reinforce it in our minds, or to allow us a minute to ponder the statement.

"Precious Name, O how sweet!" To the Christian, the name of Jesus is a reminder of His mercy, love and grace that is poured out toward us. Even if we are in Mrs. Baxter's condition, we know that this temporal life will indeed end and the doorway will open to eternity. We have been promised that Jesus will meet us and take us to that place (John 4:13). As a Child of God we will be accepted into Heaven and rest from our work here on Earth (John 6:37). To be reminded that, while we were Jesus' enemies, He loved us enough to come and take our punishment and break the power of sin and death over us is a very sweet thought (Rom 5:8). The full meaning will be learned over the course of eternity.

"Hope of Earth and joy of Heaven" There are many who hope for a brighter tomorrow for this world. Many work hard, donate time, money and skills to better mankind and the situation of those who are not as blessed. These are certainly noble and not to be diminished. But the only true hope for those who inhabit this Earth is Jesus Christ as the Savior from sin and death. We are told that there is no other way to Heaven than though the salvation Jesus offers to mankind freely (Acts 4:12). The angels worship, are sent as messengers, and are soldiers for their Lord. The four living creatures that stand near the Throne of God and speak of the holiness of God (Rev 4:8).

One day, at the name of Jesus every knee will bow and acknowledge that he is the Lord and Master of all creation (Rom 14:11, Phil 2:10). We have what the world is searching for to fill the longing for love and acceptance inside each one of us. Many will try to fill that void with achievements, power, drugs, sex, giving, etc., but they will only have varying levels of falling short of satisfying that desire. God made each one of us. He knows us better than we know ourselves. And He wants the very best for us. He demonstrated that at Calvary where he gave His blood and suffered cruel abuse and death to open the door to us to an amazing eternity.

Grace & Peace,
Mike

jmhoskins@gmail.com
http://www.cfdevotionals.org

Take the Name of Jesus with you,
Child of sorrow and of woe;
It will joy and comfort give you;
Take it, then, where'er you go.

Chorus

Precious Name, O how sweet!
Hope of earth and joy of Heaven.
Precious Name, O how sweet!
Hope of earth and joy of Heaven.

Take the Name of Jesus ever,
As a shield from every snare;
If temptations round you gather,
Breathe that holy Name in prayer.

Chorus

O the precious Name of Jesus!
How it thrills our souls with joy,
When His loving arms receive us,
And His songs our tongues employ!

Chorus

At the Name of Jesus bowing,
Falling prostrate at His feet,
King of kings in Heaven we'll crown Him,
When our journey is complete.

Chorus

Lydia Baxter (1809-1874) pub. 1870, music William H. Doane, pub. 1871, public domain