His Name

I am known by many names depending on who is using it.  To my parents, I am Diana, (if my full name is used, I am in trouble) to our sons, Mom.  To our granddaughter, Gamma.  When a Tele-marketer calls, I am Mrs. Southwick (click).   Some use endearing names such as Geek, friend and to only one, ‘Sweetheart.’  But to most, I am DeDe.

Our name can define relationship, title, personality and even our character.  Pardon me as I reach out a grab my soapbox, and femininely climb up and make myself comfortable for a brief moment.  Have you noticed the many different names used referring to God these days, even among church-going folks?   I have heard ‘Big Guy in the sky’, ‘Man upstairs’ or ‘Dude with the rules.’  For some, using these lessens the impact.  Or so they think.  I am going to be extremely blunt.  “Jesus.”  Many avoid using it; many toss it around haphazardly like a used empty Coke cup, confirming no value to them.  Some try whispering His name as not to offend. Folks Jesus is offensive.  Just the mere fact of Who He is.  He upset the ancient known world, He is the Son of the Most High God, Creator of all things, the Word became flesh, the One Who one day will ride on a white horse wearing the title ‘King of Kings and Lord of Lords!’ (head bowed) He is so NOT the norm, so other.  In light of that statement, we are SMALL, so very very VERY small in comparison, and most don’t – like – that.

Let’s face it; the mere mention of Jesus’ name can invoke action from the heavenly realm, so we better – be – oh – so – careful of its use. I was once in a restaurant and a gentleman used Jesus’ full name (if you will) in an unrespectful way.  Being bold I calmly, not in a scolding way, politely said, “I really don’t think He is going to respond when you talk to Him like that.”  The look on his quieted face and taken aback countenance … priceless!

Let’s bring it home.  How do we, followers of Christ, lovers of God address Him? Does it reflect respect, an authoritative figure, and relationship?  How do we refer to our God in conversation with others, and in the most intimate prayer times, or just in our thought life?

Paul wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)

May we NEVER shy away from or dumby down from using His name with respect and honor. (Climbing down carefully from my well-built and quite fashionable box)

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)