He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it. Rev. 2:17 (NIV)
Dear Lord Jesus, this Scripture reminds us that nothing is more central to our identity than the name(s) by which we live; and often our most formative name isn’t the one on our birth certificate. Some of us have been branded with names that have marked, shamed, and wounded us deeply; and likewise, we grieve the things we have called others—often out of anger and exasperation. Forgive us, Lord. All of us stand in need of your mercy and grace, which you readily, freely, and fully give us.
Jesus, whether or not there’s literally a new name you’ll give us in heaven, written on a white stone, I’m not sure. But it’s enough that you look at me today and address me as “Mine“, “Beloved“, and “Desired“. I’m so grateful for the power of the gospel to rename, renew, and release us from old destructive labels—the ones others have given us, and the ones we’ve given ourselves.
But as much as I love my new names, Jesus, your name is the name I love to hear more than any other. It’s by your name that we’re fully forgiven and declared righteous, being healed of every disease and being freed from every bondage. And it’s at your name, Jesus, that one Day we will gladly bow our knees with everyone in heaven, on earth and under the earth (Phil. 2:9-11). Hallelujah, and hasten that blessed Day.
Lord Jesus, it’s only because you overcame sin and death for us that we dare call ourselves an “overcomer.” It’s only because you drank the cup of our judgment that we’ll get to feast on the “hidden manna” of eternity. Continue to free us to live by the names you’ve given us, and to forsake all other destructive labels; and help us address one another the way you speak to us—with much kindness and hope. So very Amen we pray, in your exalted and all tender name.
