Friday, February 1 2008

Changed Your Name

Romans 10:13 – ‘Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

Names are important. Parents may spend months researching and deciding on the perfect name for their baby. Often the final decision is based on its sound, uniqueness or meaning.

One woman took on a new name because she disliked her original name. She mistakenly believed that changing it could alter her destiny. That’s not likely, for those who trust in Jesus as their Savior and are from that time on identified by His name, a radical transformation does take place.

There is a powerful significance attached to the name of Jesus. The apostles performed miracles and cast out demon in His name. They spoke and taught in the name of Jesus. They baptized believers in the name of Jesus. And it is only through the name of Jesus that we gain access to the Father.

When we become Christians, we share in that worthy name. And as we follow Christ, we are able to reflect His light to any darkness we encounter, whether in our neighborhood, our workplace, or even our home. Our prayer should be that when people see us – they will see Christ. Our names may have meaning or significance. But to bear the name Christian is life-transforming. (ODB-CHK)