6 names of Jesus to pray with this Christmas

Think of all the names you will write this season on Christmas cards, gift tags, shopping lists, and party invitations. Most of us have multiple names over the length of our lifetimes: Nicknames from friends and family. New names taken in marriage or religious life. Versions of our given name that we prefer.

But how often do you pray with the many names of the one who gives this season its name?

Savior. Redeemer. Messiah. Prince of Peace. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. We can forget that these titles are short prayers in and of themselves, each a window through which we catch a glimpse of God. But meditating on the mysteries of Christ’s names can deepen our prayer throughout the Christmas season, from the nativity to the baptism of the Lord.

Christ’s names spread a great feast before us: a long table prepared in love with a seat for each of us. Whether we call Jesus “Brother,” “Savior,” or “Lord,” he waits to welcome us by name.

One of my favorite names for Jesus is Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us.” This word holds together the weight of wonder with the promise of the longed-for Savior whom the prophets foretold. Once I fell in love with this name, I started to glimpse more of God-with-us today.

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