Luke 1:31. “You will name him Jesus.”

Jesus was the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua.

Joshua was a common name meaning, “the LORD saves”

Just as Joshua had led the Israelites into the promise land so Jesus would lead his people onto eternal life.

The symbolism of his name would not be lost on the people of his day, who took names seriously. They saw them as a source of power.

God called Moses to deliver the people out of Egypt which foreshadows Jesus delivering his people out of sin and slavery. In Jesus’ story, Mary was much like Moses and called by the Heavens to deliver the Savior. It’s quite interesting to compare the two in their initial response to God’s command. Moses vs Mary. We know from the Exodus story that Moses, while great as a leader, had quite the many objections to God. He had excuse after excuse for God to send him:

• Who am I? (3:11)

• Who is sending me? (3:13)

• What if they don’t believe me? (v 4:1),

• I am not good with words? (4:10)

• He even pleads in verse 13 “please don’t send me.”

I always wonder how things got started. How certain things began. Or why they are the way they are. I found the start of using evergreen trees, lights and ornaments very interesting. Makes me want to always incorporate red ornament bulbs on my tree.

How do we respond to the impossible. Do we resond like Abraham with laughter, doubt like Zechariah, or yes Lord like Mary.