The Promise

My father was not overly strict but he was adamant about one thing: our names. When a friend would call and ask for Barb or Barbie he told them there was no one here by that name but there was a Barbara. My friends soon learned to call me by the name he gave me.

Our names often come from a friend, a hero or just because our parents liked the name. Our last names often reveal something about our heritage. In baptism God claims us with the words, “I baptize you, your name, child of God.” We do not have to be afraid, because in love God knows us and calls us by name.

I was named out of love and so were Abraham and Sarah. God made a covenant with them to always be with them and all future generations.

Solomon wrote that a good name is more desirable than great riches. Why? It all tracks back to God and the value God places on a name, God’s name and ours. We end most prayers with “In Jesus’ name.” Thus prayed and meant is a good indication that our names have been recorded in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

My God, thank you for loving us. How great is your promise to always be with us. Amen. — BW

Contributed by The Promise

My father was not overly strict but he was adamant about one thing: our names. When a friend would call and ask for Barb or Barbie he told them there was no one here by that name but there was a Barbara. My friends soon learned to call me by the name he gave me. Our names often come from a friend, a hero or just because our parents liked the name. Our last names often reveal something about our heritage. In baptism God claims us with the words, "I baptize you, your name, child of God." We do not have to be afraid, because in love God knows us and calls us by name. I was named out of love and so were Abraham and Sarah. God made a covenant with them to always be with them and all future generations. Solomon wrote that a good name is more desirable than great riches. Why? It all tracks back to God and the value God places on a name, God's name and ours. We end most prayers with "In Jesus' name." Thus prayed and meant is a good indication that our names have been recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life.
Eternity for Today