In the third chapter of the book of Ephesians, Paul states, "For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name."
When visiting our hometown of Ruston, Meg and I will often visit the gravesite of our grandparents and great grandparents. On the headstone of Benjamin and Elizabeth James, a scripture verse has been inscribed. It has faded a bit over the years (see photo below), but this is what it says, "A good name is to be more desired than great riches..." this is the first part of Proverbs 22:1. A good name.... I pause to think of my own name, my maiden name and the names of my ancestors. Giving a child his or her name can be an overwhelming thought as they will wear it always. The verse from Proverbs obviously references a deeper meaning, one that carries honor and integrity and much more.
I recalled the confirmation service of our third child. I had been a part in leading the class that was preparing these mostly 11 and 12 year olds to join our home church in Ruston, Trinity Methodist. Very distinct in my memory as I stood at the front of the chapel that Sunday morning and spoke about these young people joining the church and becoming Methodist, was what I suppose I would call an impartation of some kind. Yes, it seemed meaningful that they were becoming a part of a particular denomination, but what name would they be known for? Would it be Methodist? Or something greater? My hope was that each would carry the name that is above all others, the name of Christ. This was to be the name that defined them.
Of all the early apostles, Paul could claim the importance of names that defined his life... He was from the nation of Israel, the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews, a Pharisee. But he came to count these names and titles as nothing compared to knowing Jesus Christ, the only name that mattered.
Nationality, social status, great riches, even our particular faith affiliation and the individual name we are known by may define us. But there is a name above all others, the name of Jesus. May His be the name we desire above all else.
