Where Everyone Knows Your Name
What's your name? Is your given name the same one you go by in your daily life? What about your favorite name, of the ones you have...Where'd you get it and who uses it?
In Pappy's world, everyone has a name. A unique and individual name that he has determined was fitting for each member of our family. Earl, Milford, Skeet...I could list them all, but I'll spare you. None of us know how he comes up with our names, but he does and they stick. Mine's Nana. It's been close to that my whole life so I'm good with it. Lately he's called me "Super Nana", that's kind of a big deal. I like it! I love Pappy. We have a good history and he's been a huge help to me for over 35 years. Pappy and Giah-my in-laws, live in our town and I'm not really sure how many people here know them by their actual birth name. "Mr. and Mrs." is typically used, but "Pappy and his wife" are common.
Pappy has a special place in my heart for so many reasons. He has loved me and treated me as his own from the first time he met me. He has laughed at me and with me. He's forgiven me, never judged me and is always there to help me, even before I know I need help. The only time I've seen Pappy angry is when one of his kids were done wrong. "Kids" include blood, marriage-acquired and any he takes fishing.
Someone who has many names that is also important to me is Jesus. Isaiah 9:6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: ...and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseler, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." KJV
St. Matthew 1:21 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus:..."
Today, I may go by many names as I trudge through the tasks ahead, but there is one I call on as soon as my eyes open in the morning; MY God. He's my Helper, Redeemer, Savior. My Rock and my Salvation.
Pappy has his hands full with "Myrtle" right now and as hard as he tries to fight it, he's getting a little slower and a little older. I still love to have him around and enjoy working with him as well as value his efforts to help us. But the name I depend on every second of every day is my Heavenly Father. He will not tarry, nor will He waver. No matter how much I yell at Him or try to do things my way, He'll always come through.
~Gracious Lord, my heart is beating because of you. I'm alive because of you. I'm blessed by you daily and I ask that you continue to provide truthful wisdom for me to grow and serve you well. Thank you for your faithful and patient help and guidance. I love you, and I praise your many names. Thank you for what you plan to do in my life today. In the omniscient name of Jesus, Amen.
