I think that George may be underestimating the name of Jesus. Names still
mean a lot to people ( the name of a loved one eg. can cause remarkable
sensations, motivations, overcomings, changes for the better, etc.) and
they certainly had tremendous meaning for ancient peoples. Reflection on
John 14:12-14 and contexts suggests that Jesus' name is a source of power
for the Christian community. In this particularly intimate discussion with
his disciples we see Jesus as the One who brings to pass in the lives of
his people the love that activates, perhaps even in its very reflecting,
that love demonstrated in the mutuality, interdependence, deference,
hospitality and generosity of the triune God. Hallowed be that Name! It
struck me that George may have treated a bit too cavalierly the propriety
and use of Jesus' name in Christian prayer and life. I agree that there is
also the abhorrent magical and manipulative use of Jesus' name by those
who take it in vain.
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Graham E. Morbey, Chaplain || Wilfrid Laurier University
tel. 519-884-1970 ext.2739 || Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3C5
fax 519-885-4865 || gmorbey@wlu.ca
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