He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it. Rev. 2:17 (NIV)
Dear Lord Jesus, this Scripture reminds me that nothing is more central to our identity than the name(s) by which we live. And often our most functional and formative name isn’t the one on our birth certificate. Some of us have been branded with names that have shamed and wounded us deeply; and some of us have greatly harmed others by the labels we have placed on them. All of us stand in need of your mercy and grace, which you readily and freely give.
Jesus, whether or not there’s literally a new name you’ll give us in heaven, I’m not sure. But it is enough that you look at us today and address us today as “Beloved,” ”Mine,” and “Desired”. I am so grateful for the power of the gospel to rename, renew, and release us from old destructive labels—including the ones we’ve given ourselves.
But as much as I love my new gospel-names, your name is the name I love to hear more than any other. It’s by your name we’re fully forgiven and declared righteous, are being healed of every disease and freed from every bondage. And it is at your name, one Day, we will gladly bow our knees with everyone in heaven, on earth and under the earth—declaring that you are Lord, to the glory of God (Phil. 2:9-11). Hasten that blessed Day, Lord Jesus.
It’s only because you overcame sin and death for us that I dare call myself an “overcomer.” It’s only because you drank the cup of our judgment that I’ll get to feast on the “hidden manna” of eternity. It’s only because you love me, that I love you, Jesus. Continue to free me to live by the names you’ve given us. So very Amen I pray, in your exalted and all glorious name.
