Isaiah 43:1

New International Version (NIV)

But now, this is what the Lord says …
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”

For meditation

The day was very special for Mark. His best friend from elementary school was coming to town, and he was excited to meet him. Mark hadn’t seen Tinoh since grade five when Tinoh left their small town to live with his big sister in the city. Today, he returns as Minister for Regional Integration and Rural Development to commission their town as the new District Capital. Mark had done well in his own right and needed no favors. All he expected was a minute to congratulate his best friend. During the reception, Mark worked his way to the Minister to greet him.

“Hello Honorable Minister! So good to see you again.”

With the usual rehearsed smile of all politicians, Tinoh shook Mark’s hand and quickly turned away to the party executives that surrounded him.

“Tinoh, it’s me, Mark, your friend from elementary school. I just wanted to …”

His jaw dropped, as Tinoh looked back at him quizzically and turned away. The joyful smile in Mark’s face faded into a wry grin. Deflated, he walked out into the hot afternoon sun.

Many of us may have had similar experiences before. Our big expectations were turned into disappointments, because the one we confidently expected to know us didn’t have a clue as to who we were. But, thank God we have a Friend who will never disappoint us that way. Never! His name is Jesus.

He is our God, Eternal King, Redeemer, Lord, and affectionate Friend. Hear what He says to His people:

“But now, this is what the Lord says—
he who created you, [put your name here],
he who formed you, [your name]:
‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine’” (Is. 43:1).

I don’t know about you, but I rejoice that the One who created the entire universe knows me by name and will never forget me. Let the whole world forget me, I have an eternal assurance from God that He created, formed, and redeemed me. He tells me that He has summoned me by name, and that I am His own (Is. 43:1).

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne?” He asks. “Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” (49:15 Emphasis mine).

So, don’t be disheartened that world dignitaries may not know you by name, and that your best friends may forget you over time. The One who will make the final roll call in heaven, Jesus Christ, your Redeemer and Lord, is the One who has called you by name, and will finally welcome you by name into His eternal rest. He will never forget you! Never!

He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out (Jn. 10:3).

Shalom