This was one of the earliest titles given to Jesus and seems to have been a favourite with Peter. It is the name which he used as disciple to confess Jesus as Messiah (John 6: 69, R.S.V.) and which, as apostle, he quoted from Psalm 16: 10 on the day of Pentecost. 'The Holy One' was a title of messianic rank, but we may also take it as a description of character.
In the first place, Jesus makes holiness visible. As the great poet Tennyson claims, “Thou seemest human and divine, The highest, holiest manhood, thou. In Jesus this holiness is changed from an abstraction into a living example. In fact the word holiness becomes flesh and dwells among us.
You will recall how Jesus said to his disciples, “Jesus said to his disciples, "No one after lighting a lamp hides it under a jar, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a lamp stand, so that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nor is anything secret that will not become known and come to light. Then pay attention to how you listen; for to those who have, more will be given; and from those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away." Luke 8:16-18
A Prayer
Jesus wants his followers to follow his example to let their light shine so that it can be seen by others. This is not putting on an act. It is living according to the lights we have received. At times this can be challenging. Being laughed at and sometimes being physically persecuted for acting upon our sincerely held beliefs, requires divine help. Jesus, however, has promised to be with us and give us his unfailing help to the end of time.
Lord, to be a Christian today is challenging. In times of struggle I am tempted to hide my light, to remain anonymous, to be silent out of shame. Lord, when the wick of my lamp flickers and fades, strengthen its beam and let me be again a light-bearer, a beacon of hope to all whom I daily encounter. Amen
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