“He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out” (John 10:3b, NLT).
With all the billions of people in the world, we sometimes feel we’re one among many, a number or a statistic. Everything seems impersonal and we can feel lost in the crowd, so when someone takes the time to remember our name, the world becomes more friendly. After needing both tires replaced and several adjustments, the guy at the bike repair shop knows my name. I wouldn’t expect him to remember it, but it’s nice that he does. Being on a first name basis with people makes doing business more pleasant and helps build a relationship.
Jesus knows each of us by name, knows us intimately and cares about every detail of our lives. We don’t have to worry he’ll one day look at us and say, now what was your name again? No matter how bad a day you’ve had or how impersonally you’ve been treated, you can always trust Jesus to treat you as a loved friend—because you are!
Oh, I have to comment more about names! God names things what they are. And He has an individual name for all of us (Rev.2:17). And, isn’t this strange? He says, “Why do you ask Me about My Name?” (Several places in Scripture.) Maybe His Name is evident? Why ask? So good … the things He sends our way! Thanks to Him, and praise, forever!