"Where God's name is, there life and salvation must be present also!” The Large Catechism, Holy Baptism
What’s in a name? There is a whole lot in the Lord’s name to be sure. Jesus’ name means Yahweh or God saves! This month, another in our series of time-honored traditions in worship; the calling on and calling down of God’s holy name! The Liturgy begins as we call upon God’s holy name together. What better place to begin since where God's name is,there life and salvation must be also! We also conclude our service together each week with the blessing of God’s name as it is called down upon us!
So, what’s in a name? Come and find out! Our Summer Study this year will explore our Lord’s revealing of himself in his holy name! Our study begins on Tuesday July 10th at 7pm in the lounge area. Our theme is the Truth of the Trinity as we explore God revealed for us as the Great Three in One; Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Join us for this informal 4 -week study. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
The calling on and calling down of God’s holy name is also a reminder of faith’s blessings for us each day! As we begin worship we are reminded of the time the Lord first placed his name upon us in Baptism when we were washed and called to faith by our Lord in the one name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Since that day we are blessed to have his name put upon again and again in the concluding words of the Liturgy, “The Lord bless you and Keep You!” We have been made his possession through faith in his saving name. So it is that we are privileged to be called his children and to live under his name each day!
The scriptures remind us that the name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and find safety there! Our gracious God who claims us in his name reveals his power over sin and evil throughout the entire season of our lives of faith. Thanks be to God! We are people called by and called in his name! So let us worship together week to week and day to day because in our Lord’s name there is great blessing for all God’s people forever!