What's In a Name?

Alexis Dallara-Marsh proposes an Advent activity designed to help children of all ages learn about the many names of Jesus.

"She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.” (Matthew 1:23)

Wonder worker.

Prince of Peace.

The Lamb of God.

The many names of Jesus: the list goes on and on. I am not sure exactly how many titles Jesus is given in the Bible—does anyone know? As a mom of three little ones, and a hopeful teacher to many more in our Church, this Advent I’m hoping to help children explore this further. A quick search on Amazon revealed a set of simple wood ornaments, each of which offer one of 48 different titles for Jesus and the Bible verse from where this is found.

I am hoping to have the kids trace the names in the color of their choice on one side and draw a picture or other art symbol of on the other side of their ornament. Older kids could do a more elaborate project researching the Bible verse in more detail.

I like how this could be a great bonding activity for families and is very simple to our getting to know Jesus in more intimate fashion, as we should be doing over the season of Advent. May God bless you and your family for a peaceful Advent.