– Scripture:
Then Moses said to God, “Suppose I go to the People of Israel and I tell them, ‘The God of your fathers sent me to you’; and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ What do I tell them?” God said to Moses, “I-AM-WHO-I-AM. Tell the People of Israel, ‘I-AM sent me to you.’ ” God continued with Moses: “This is what you’re to say to the Israelites: ‘God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob sent me to you.’ This has always been my name, and this is how I always will be known. “Now be on your way. Gather the leaders of Israel. Tell them, ‘God, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, appeared to me, saying, “I’ve looked into what’s being done to you in Egypt, and I’ve determined to get you out of the affliction of Egypt and take you to the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, a land brimming over with milk and honey.” ’ “Believe me, they will listen to you. Then you and the leaders of Israel will go to the king of Egypt and say to him: ‘God, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness where we will worship God our God.’
Exodus 3:13–18 MSG
– Reflection:
What Is Your Name
I found this passage thought-provoking, as it talks about the significance of names and how they shape our perception of ourselves. In coaching and mentoring, a name given to a child by their environment can seem to fit them perfectly, even if they personally disagree with it. The text prompts me to consider the story behind my own name. Was it a family name passed down through generations, or was it inspired by a historical or public figure? The author emphasizes the importance of names, suggesting that when a name is chosen for someone, it becomes a part of their identity, shaping their persona as they grow into adulthood. The passage also touches on the significance of knowing the name of a god, as it symbolizes who to call on for help in times of trouble. This resonates with the Israelites’ need to know God’s name as they faced challenges during their journey. The passage concludes by expressing gratitude for being able to cry out to the Lord in times of trouble.
Where do we go from here?
Hopefully, none of us will find ourselves in a situation where we need help defending ourselves. However, it has been said that if you are in trouble and start calling out normal names given to people by their parents, others will be more likely to help you. We shouldn’t need a special reason to help someone, but if you hear your name, please follow that instinct to help.
Our Prayer for Today
Father, thank you for revealing your name to us. We really want to know who you are. Deliver us from all evil and assure us of your presence. Amen.
