https://odb.org/MY/2021/10/01/whats-your-name
Today’s ODB sets forth an interesting discussion on names, namely (pun intended), the name our parents gave us, the name others give us, the name we give ourselves as well as the name Jesus gives us. Our first name (for example, mine is Ronnie, the name my parents gave me) will remain throughout the other 3 scenarios, but I think it is useful to ponder what are the other names we could or would or are given.
What name would others call us? Reliable, dependable, hardworking, meticulous, smart etc or negatives like evil, selfish, self serving, difficult, tyrant, stingy etc? I have heard people calling me “an experienced negotiater” in my line of work and coincidentally that’s my tagline in my LinkedIn profile. I have also heard people calling me “a nice guy” which in the social context is good but not really good in the context of work as the latter means I’m likely to give in than to fight for more. Of course there are negatives as we are not perfect but let’s not dwell too much on that. But I think the question today is what is the name we want people to know us? For me, I’ll like that to be a person who tries to put God first – recognising the intent but perhaps I’m not always successful, the frailty of the human condition. What about you?
The third name is the one we give ourselves? What is that? Is our name we always give our best in all situations or we just do what we can. Or maybe we like to be known as we will do just enough, no more no less, to commensurate with our salary and position? There is no right or wrong as everyone is entitled to take their stand. I prefer to be known as someone who will help if I can, whether it’s life advice, work, finance or spiritual journey. But when it comes to work, no problem to work beyond my call of duty. Just that I need to look at my workload to do justice and to be fair to everyone. But at the spiritual front, I think I like to be known for faithfulness, more than anything else like powerful, visionary, prophetic, apostolic etc.
Lastly and most importantly, what’s the name Jesus will give us on the white tablet at the day of judgment? Will it be well done, my good and faithful servant? We have done what He had set you out to do with our life? Thus, we have fulfilled His calling upon our lives?
Perhaps, the best outcome is that the name people give us, the name we give ourselves and the name Jesus gives are all one and the same. Our reputation, character and our soul all exhibit and resonate the same thing – that is to glorify God’s name. It will not be easy, but it is doable as we allow the Lord to be our Potter and we be the model Clay, submissive and totally surrendered to His will. Pray and think about this today.
Ronnie's Thoughts 