Listen

Therefore, God highly honored him and gave him a name above all names, so that at the name of Jesus everyone in heaven, on earth, and under the earth might bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11

Think

Have you ever thought about the importance of your name? It’s the first thing we say when we meet someone new. It is the label we were gifted from birth. Our name is part of our identity. We take pride in it and value it. When we come together in community, it is that identity we bring with us.

Being in community in the name of Jesus is built upon the idea that all of its participants are important and valued, yet also unique. If you walk into a room, you don’t leave your name outside the door. As people enter into community, they too come with all of their gifts, talents, and experiences. When we think about being together in Christ, we are not trying to be a melting pot where everyone loses their identity. We are more like a stained-glass window. No two pieces are the same, but each are named and known and beautifully crafted into one.

Think today about ways you can more fully be you, made in the image of God.

Allison Blay

Pray

Creative God, thank you for making me unique. With this great reminder of love, help me to celebrate differences and build community that reflects you. Amen.

Go

Go with humility and grace, opening your arms to those around you.

Go with your eyes open to see new people and places to love.

Go, being fully you and celebrate the joy of the Lord.

Go, be together.