Called By Name
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Memory Verse
Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). (NIV)
Do you know where your name comes from? Some people have family names passed down for generations. Other people are named after someone famous. And still others just have names that simply sound cool.
Wherever your name comes from, it is unique to you. Being called by name is very special. It means that you are important and people recognize you. On the other hand, not being known by name can make you feel like you don’t belong.
After Jesus died, his followers must have felt lost. Even though Jesus told them that he would rise from the dead, they were still scared and alone without their teacher and friend. So on Easter morning—when they got word from Mary that Jesus’ tomb was empty—they had to see for themselves. They ran as fast as they could and found the tomb empty, just as Mary had said. They left, not knowing exactly what to think.
But Mary stayed there, still searching for Jesus. Still alone and lost. Until Jesus was right there! And even though she didn’t recognize who he was, he knew exactly who she was. And all he had to do was say her name. “Mary.” And then she knew. She knew that she was not alone and that she was loved.
Jesus knows your name too. He lived, died, and rose again from the dead for you by name. Are there times in your life when you don’t feel known or loved? In those times, remember that Jesus knows your name. He calls you by name because he knows you and loves you very much. You are very special to Jesus!
Prayer
Thank you for knowing my name and calling me by name, Jesus! Thank you for living, dying, and being raised from the dead for me! Forgive me when I forget that I am loved by you. Help me to love you more and more each day. Amen.Related Resources
Bret Lamsma
Bret Lamsma is the Director of Faith Formation at First Christian
Reformed Church in Denver, Colorado. He has also served churches in
California and Michigan. He has a passion for youth ministry and
intergenerational ministry in the local church. When he isn’t working at
church or writing he enjoys hanging out with his wife and 2 children,
hiking, woodworking, and watching movies.