[Monday's Devotional] - Identity in my Name

There are many things that form our identity – name, profession, appearance, roles, family – the list goes on and on. I have had a lifetime of being called many names - mainly mispronunciations of the name I was called (a downfall of having an unusual name!)  I always say I answer to most names as long as they are not too unkind or rude. I've got used to my name being wrongly pronounced or altered by others, but deep down it does grate a little as it is not the name by which I am called.

More recently, as my parents have aged, I have noticed how often they get my name completely wrong. I am called by the name of a sister, friend, parent or partner – any name they can recall. But this is quite hurtful when it keeps happening! The name they chose to call me by is gone from their memories. I know we all have a slip up at times, draw a blank when we see a familiar face, but my parents chose my name for me, and yet still struggle to recall it at times.

My name forms part of my identity – it is who I am. My name was chosen for me even before I came into being. Although my father and mother chose my name, the name by which I am called – my identity - comes from my Father in heaven.

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine"

Isaiah 43:1 [ESV]

Regardless of wrong names, mispronunciations or hurtful names, my true identity comes from God.  The rest of the names do not matter.  God knows my name, and He has called me by that name to be His, to eternity.  It is written in His book, engraved on His hands, and will never be forgotten.  His name is the only name that matters, and that has a true claim on my identity.

Corinne Mason