In the beloved hymn “Take the Name of Jesus with You” (words by Lydia Odell Baxter, 1870), the first stanza is:
“Take the Name of Jesus with you, Child of sorrow and of woe,
It will joy and comfort give you; Take it then, where’er you go.”
In the refrain of this hymn is noted the preciousness, sweetness, hope, and joy associated with the Name of Jesus. Is the significance of Jesus being noted in our life?
As we prayerfully approach life (as we noted the privilege of prayer yesterday), we also ought to live mindful of what we carry into it. Upon the conversion of Saul (later called Paul) after seeing the light on the road to Damascus, Ananias was sent to meet him and restore his sight. (Acts 9:10-12) Knowing Saul’s reputation as a persecutor (Acts 9:13-14), Ananias was understandably reluctant, but was encouraged where we read. . .
“(15) But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. (16) For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.”” (Acts 9:15-16)
The calling of Paul was a privilege he acknowledged he did not deserve. (i.e. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10) It was by grace he was granted this privilege. (Ephesians 3:7-8; 1 Timothy 1:13-16) And what a privilege it is to have received the Good News of Jesus and have the opportunity to share it with others. It is the goodest news (I know, bad English, but emphasizes the point) we can possibly share with others. And though God could reveal His Will by any means possible, He has chosen us as Christians to share the saving truth of Jesus with the world. (i.e. Matthew 28:18-20)
As I consider my own life, I am struck by the privilege I have been granted to not only share the Scriptures with a congregation of the Lord’s people on a regular basis, but also to share it with others in our community, with individuals who have struggled with homelessness, and even incarcerated individuals in both county and state facilities. I have also had the privilege of sharing two sermons in India, and also speak to and teach teens at Bible camp, youth rallies, and retreats. Along with all that I have been given the privilege of sharing the truth of the Scriptures through writing on a regular basis. However, I must remain mindful of carrying the Name of Jesus with me on a daily basis as I have opportunity even in my regular walking around town to encourage others with whom I interact, and on many occasions I have had that privilege. Having been given the privilege of these opportunities, I must honor God in remaining mindful it is His message and I am only the messenger. But what a privilege to witness the power of His truth begin to embrace hearts and redirect the lives of others. I don’t deserve the privilege and sometime wonder about my adequacy for the task, but am constantly reminded of God’s power at work in spite of any weakness on my part.
May we praise God for the power in His Word as we not only share it, but live as an example of its truth in daily living. In this way we will draw attention to and honor the Name of Christ as Christians!
Have a great day CARRYING THE NAME OF JESUS WITH YOU!
Carl
