The Power of a Name
But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine." Isaiah 43:1
Insight
Most Sundays you can find me checking kids into Grow Zone, the children's ministry at our church. I love serving on the Host Team for a host of different reasons (see what I did there?), but if I'm honest, I do it solely for the smiles and high fives.
Over time, I've gotten to know many of "our regulars." So have the other volunteers. And because of this, the moment we see a familiar family walking down the hallway, we compete to see who can print off their tag first. When mom and dad roll up to the kiosk, I get to greet them, catch up, and have a conversation. And, then I turn my attention to the kiddos: Phoebe! I've missed you! Finn, my man... what's going on? Daphne, I love that outfit! Jack, we saved you a few trucks!
Somewhere in that interaction, magic happens. Their face lights up. They smile and giggle. Any apprehension they might have had fades. Never underestimate the small stuff. Everyone has a name. Living in a culture drowning in shallowness, the simple act of knowing someone's name makes a big difference.
Uttering a person's name gets their attention instantly while leaving a lasting impression down the road. A person's name is a connection point to their identity and individuality. Knowing it is the first step in communicating value and sending a message they're worth remembering. People feel cared for, appreciated, and experience a sense of security as a result.
So, it's no wonder the specific reminder the prophet Isaiah gave to the terrified people who made up the nations of Judah and Israel: God has called you by NAME. The One who created you knows you intimately. He hasn't abandoned you. I understand what you're going through because I'm right there by your side. In this sea of humanity, you matter. You are mine.
I don't know about you, but I experience moments of insecurity and fear. My circumstances cause me to lose hope and doubt that things will ever change. And, amid those overwhelming feelings, I feel utterly abandoned. That's when I need to remind myself that fear is a liar who knows nothing about me. I must tune my ears to hear God whisper, "TONY, don't fear for I am with you. I gave you a name and know the number of hairs on your head. I created you with great detail. If I went to all that trouble, why would I ever turn my back on you?"
He says those same words to you. God knows you better than you know yourself. Not only did He give you a name, but He also took it a step further. Stop what you're doing and reread today's verse and notice a transformative word contained within it. God CALLED you by name.
He didn't give you a name, and send you on your way. There's a call and a purpose for your life, which means what you are experiencing is God-ordained. It's not to punish you. It's not to push you away. It's not because He's indifferent toward you. Actually, it's quite the opposite. God uses everything, both the good and the bad, to mold and shape you into the person He wants you to become.
The One who called you knows you better than you know yourself. Ignore the enemy's generic deceptions and paying attention to the One who greets you by name. So, call out His name in those places where fear paralyzes you. He's listening.
Reflection
What power and freedom come from trusting that God called you by name?
Where do you need to make this declaration to combat your fear?
Prayer
God, fear is a liar. It knows nothing about me. You have called me by name because You are the One who knit me together and gave me a purpose. Thank you for knowing me so intimately. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.