By Helen Kelly
“Know and understand this: From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens,’ and sixty-two ‘sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble.” (Daniel 9:25)
“The woman said, ‘I know that Messiah’ (called Christ) ‘is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.’ Then Jesus declared, ‘I, the one speaking to you — I am he.’” (John 4:25–26)
What if I told you I hold a title of “Lady” based on owning a small plot of land on the other side of the pond?
It’s true! My husband purchased a very tiny land parcel in Dunfermline, Scotland, as my birthday gift this year, complete with a printed proclamation of “elevated” social status.
A title tells you something about the person bearing its name. My kids call me “Mama.” My sister’s children call me “Aunt Ellie.” My mom used to call me “Helen Jean” when she really wanted to get my attention. Each of these names tells you something about me.
Every name we carry tells a story about who we are and whose we are. The title “Messiah” carries centuries of longing, prophecy, and promise within its letters. It speaks of relationship and purpose. He is the One who is to save! Amen?!
When Jesus confirmed His identity as Messiah to the Samaritan woman, He wasn’t just claiming a title. He was revealing the fulfillment of humanity’s deepest hopes — the One anointed to heal, to save, to restore what was broken.
Questions for Reflection
What does it mean to you that Jesus is the promised Messiah?
How has He fulfilled promises in your life?
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Helen Kelly serves as the pastor of discipleship at Wallenpaupack Church in Lakeville, Pennsylvania, and as an interim pastor when and where needed. She is the creator of the Living Simply With God blog/podcast, and she freelances for the Church Development Network, sharing impactful stories of church multiplication. She is also the co-author of the new book “He Shall Be Named” from which this article is an adapted excerpt. With master’s degrees in both public administration and Christian ministry, she’s devoted to teaching and creating administrative systems to reach more people for Jesus.
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