Joseph names the baby “Jesus” because he will save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). Matthew’s gospel is deeply rooted in the Old Testament where the Israelites found forgiveness in the sacrifices, but no victory over sin. Thank God for the forgiveness found in Jesus. But this year, I have been struck that the text does not say, “he will forgive his people from their sins,” but rather “he will save his people from their sins.” My desire this year is to experience a deeper work of Jesus giving victory over sin—not just forgiveness for sin.
Adrian Timmons 