January 03, 2026 Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus
Daily Readings: 1 John 2:29–3:6; John 1:29-34
Children of God: In Sri Lanka, one of the most ancient Christian symbols is the Anuradhapura Cross, discovered in the old capital city of Anuradhapura. Unlike later ornate crosses, this cross is simple, carved in stone, and marked with symbols that blend local culture with Christian faith. Its implication is profound: Christianity took root in Asia very early, not as a foreign force, but as a faith that spoke quietly and respectfully within local civilizations. Long before grand churches were built, the name of Jesus was already being whispered, believed, and lived.
In the gospel story of John 1:29–34, John the Baptist points to Jesus and declares, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). This is the first public proclamation of who Jesus truly is. John does not describe Jesus by titles of power or political authority, but by a name that reveals His mission: the Lamb, the one who saves through self-giving love. The Holy Name of Jesus carries this meaning, God who enters the world to redeem it.
The Anuradhapura Cross helps us understand this revelation. It bears no inscription of power, no name of kings, no mark of empire. Yet it silently proclaims Christ. In the same way, John the Baptist does not draw attention to himself. He exists to reveal another. He testifies that Jesus is the one on whom the Spirit descends and remains (John 1:32–33). The Holy Name of Jesus is revealed not through noise, but through faithful witness.
The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Jesus reminds us that His name is not just something we pronounce; it is something we trust. To speak the name of Jesus is to invoke salvation, mercy, and hope. Across Asia, from Sri Lanka, to India, to the Philippines, to Myanmar, to Timor Leste, and to the Holy Land, believers carried this name quietly in their hearts, even when they had little protection or recognition. The name endured because it saves.
Children of God: Like the Anuradhapura Cross of Sri Lanka and like John the Baptist, we are called to point to Jesus, not ourselves. May we carry His Holy Name with reverence, speak it with faith, and live it through love and humility.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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