What's in a Name?

I often joke that my name is fully recycled. My first name was previously given to my older brother as his middle name. And my middle name is identical to the middle name my parents both oddly share. And then of course my last name has been in our family for generations. So as a child, I enjoyed just about any nickname that my dad or mom warmly gave me. 

For the most part, I have outgrown all of those nicknames. But there is one moniker that still applies:  "son." Ironically, it is even more "recycled" than the individual parts of my full name. Yet above every other name, the label "son" carries the most meaning. While nicknames can be individualized and even carry a unique meaning, the position of "son" possesses far more significance than any playful term. In 1 John 3:1, we read,

"See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are!"

As followers of Jesus Christ, our position with God is much more meaningful than a temporary nickname. God addresses us as His own children. And not only does He label us as His own sons and daughters, but I love how John proclaims, "And so we are!" We are His image-bearers, saved by grace through faith, created for good works God has prepared beforehand for us to walk in.

Those in this world living without Christ are considered lost for many reasons. One area of lostness is surrounding identity. Without a relationship with God, the world seeks to define its existence and purpose through the temporary brokenness of a fallen world. But with Christ, everything falls into place. We can stand on a firm foundation as children of God!

So this summer as you spend time with your own children, take time to speak truth into their position as sons and daughters of the Most High God! And if they have a "recycled" name like I do, consider throwing a loving nickname their way for good measure!