Sunday, May 25, 2014

By: Gwen Hitt

Hello, My Name Is....

Proverbs 22:1 A good name is more desirable than great riches

I had the privilege of helping to organize the office retirement celebration for a co-worker who has been working in the same office - in the same position - for 34 years! Since research shows that the average worker today changes jobs every 4.4 years, my co-worker has truly exceeded the new norm.  How did she do it?

To answer this question, I created an acrostic poem using the letters of my co-worker's name to describe the exceptional personal qualities that enabled her to achieve such longevity in her career.  As I was doing this, I began to reflect on the significance of names.

Today, most parents select names based on preference. On the other hand, God often had people in the Bible specifically named with names that revealed much about their character ... their purpose.

For example, the name, Jesus, was not selected because of Joseph and Mary's preference. Joseph was actually instructed in a dream by an angel of the Lord to name the baby, Jesus, BECAUSE He would one day save His people from their sins. Jesus' name tells us of His God-given purpose ---- to save humanity.

Today's scripture states that a good name is worth more than great riches. As we often write in our devotions, we will not take our material goods with us to Heaven. BUT we will take our character ... our contributions in furthering God's Kingdom ... our NAMES with us.

Just as God's child, Jesus, was sent to save the lost ... we, as God's children, are also called to do the same.  Embrace your calling as His child --- Know that THIS name is definitely more desirable than any riches. 

Dear Lord, Thank You for including me in Your family.  My desire is to always live my life in a way that is reflective of You ... of Your Holy Name!

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.

Reflection:  Are you living your life in a manner that is worthy of being the Child of the One True King?