# The power of the most holy name of Jesus
*2017-01-18*

> Bill Young reflects on the presence of evil in the world and the necessity of prayer, specifically utilizing the Litany of the Most Holy Name of Jesus for protection and deliverance.

## Responding to Tragedy with Prayer

I recently returned to work after a week away visiting family, only to be met with tragic news. A co-worker of mine, a very upbeat person, allegedly shot and killed herself and her nine-year-old daughter. It is the most horrible news and is condemned by anyone. My first thoughts were of shock, but in deeper thought and prayer, I want to pray for Erica and her daughter, and for the truth to come out regarding what happened.

Additionally, there was an attack at the Fort Lauderdale airport, very close to my home. While initial reports suggested a lone wolf, I have heard he was communicating with others, making it an act of terrorism. It is very depressing, and I take it as a sign that we need to pray more and pray stronger. It cannot just be me; those of you listening must pray too. Please pray for Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, the United States, and for our new president as he takes office.

## The Spiritual Battle

Evil always attacks good. I remember a reading from the Holy Mass where Jesus sent out the seventy-two apostles in groups of two. They were amazed that they could cast out demons, but Jesus told them not to be amazed by that, but rather to be happy that their names are written in heaven. When we pray, we do not do it only for ourselves, but for the deliverance of our co-workers, friends, family, and our entire community from evil.

Today is the feast day of Saint Fabian. He was a farmer in the early third century during a time when the Church could not decide on a new pope. While he was in the crowd, a dove—the sign of the Holy Spirit—landed on his head. The crowd recognized he was the one chosen, and he served as a good pope for fourteen years. Just as the Holy Spirit guided him, we ask the Holy Spirit to protect us through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

## The Authority of the Name of Jesus

The Litany of the Most Holy Name of Jesus is a powerful tool in our spiritual arsenal. Evil cannot destroy our Lord Jesus Christ; He is our protector. While the devil has influence and creates snares, he cannot overcome the Name of Jesus. I see evidence of the enemy in mass murders, suicides, and the sudden darkness that can overtake even a positive person.

I experienced this personally recently. While recording a podcast, my son's cat, who was staying with me, began acting wild—crying out loudly and climbing the walls. I sprinkled some holy water on the cat and said, 'In the name of Jesus, any demons or evil ones, go away.' Immediately, the cat became peaceful and quiet. I believe it works. If you feel evil is trying to take control, call upon our Lord Jesus. The one thing the devil cannot do is overcome the name of Jesus Christ.

## Prayers for Deliverance

I invite you to join me in the Litany of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, asking for mercy and deliverance from all evil, sin, and the snares of the devil. We pray through the mysteries of the Holy Incarnation, the Nativity, the Passion, and the Resurrection.

In addition to the litany, I include prayers from the Roman Ritual and the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. We ask the Almighty Word of God to grant us forgiveness and a steadfast faith to repel the cruel demons that disturb His servants. We pray that any unclean spirits be driven away and that we may be protected in soul and body, becoming temples of the Holy Spirit.

*The only way to stop evil is through the powerful name of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is why we must pray every day, at every meal, and in every situation.*