Day 61: The Name of Jesus (2025)
Digest
This podcast episode explores the profound significance of the name "Jesus," meaning "God saves." Father Mike Schmitz explains how this name encapsulates God's act of salvation and its central role in Christian prayer, including the Jesus Prayer. The episode contrasts the reverence required for this sacred name with its sometimes casual usage. The power of the name Jesus in spiritual warfare is also highlighted, emphasizing its importance in both liturgical prayers and personal devotion. The episode connects the accessibility of the name Jesus in Christianity with the more restricted access to God's name in the Old Testament, using the Tetragrammaton as a point of comparison. Resources are provided for listeners to further explore these concepts.
Outlines
Introduction: The Name of Jesus
Father Mike Schmitz introduces the podcast episode focusing on the name of Jesus and its significance, referencing the day's reading from the Catechism and providing resources for listeners. He also mentions the Ascension edition.
The Meaning and Power of Jesus' Name
A deeper dive into the meaning of "Jesus" ("God saves") and its implications for salvation history. The episode emphasizes the unique power of the name and its proper use in prayer, contrasting its sacredness with casual misuse.
Jesus' Name in Prayer and Spiritual Warfare
Father Mike discusses the crucial role of the name Jesus in Christian prayer, including the Jesus Prayer and liturgical prayers, and its power in spiritual warfare. The importance of reverent use is stressed.
Keywords
Jesus Prayer
A short, repetitive prayer common in Eastern Christianity, often used for contemplative prayer.
Tetragrammaton
The four-letter Hebrew name of God (YHWH), highlighting the contrast with the accessibility of Jesus' name.
Incarnation
The Christian doctrine of God becoming fully human in Jesus Christ.
Salvation
Deliverance from sin through faith in Jesus Christ; the meaning of the name "Jesus."
Spiritual Warfare
The struggle against spiritual forces of evil, where the name of Jesus holds significant power.
Christian Prayer
Prayer practices within Christianity, with the name of Jesus playing a central role.
Liturgical Prayers
Formal prayers used in Christian worship services.
Q&A
What is the significance of the name "Jesus"?
The name "Jesus" means "God saves," signifying God's act of salvation through his Son.
How is the name of Jesus used in Christian prayer?
The name of Jesus is central to Christian prayer, appearing in liturgical prayers and the Jesus Prayer.
Why is it important to use the name of Jesus reverently?
The name of Jesus is sacred and represents God's presence and power; casual use contrasts with its significance.
What is the Jesus Prayer, and how can it be used?
The Jesus Prayer ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner") is used for continuous prayer.
Show Notes
Together with Fr. Mike, we examine the name above every other name: Jesus Christ. We explore the importance of this name and our reverence for it. Fr. Mike emphasizes that Christians, unlike those practicing other religions, tend to use the name of our Father in heaven “in vain.” He explains how detrimental and tragic that can be. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 430-435.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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