The Lord is with you, O champion

Let there be light

The Bible is filled with stories about the amazing things that happen when God speaks.   He said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.   He spoke the heavens and the earth into being, and they were created.   He commanded vegetation to grow and creatures to fill the world, and they did.   There is nothing he can not do with the words of his mouth!

But God’s words are not just for cosmic events like creation.   An angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and called him a mighty warrior.   At the time, Gideon was nothing special.   “My family is the lowliest in Manasseh,” he protested, “and I am the most insignificant in my father’s house”.   But that did not matter.    God had given him a new title, and with that title came the grace to fulfill his new role.   Gideon went on, in the strength of the Lord, to lead a ragtag army that rescued Israel from the Midianites.

Do you want other examples of new names from God that imparted his grace and power?   Abram, who had no children, became Abraham, the father of many nations. Jacob, the supplanter, became Israel, one who prevails with God. Simon, the reed, became Peter, the rock.   There is a pattern here, isn’t there?   Each of these people went from ordinary to extraordinary, from a position of weakness to a position of authority and influence, for the sake of God’s people.   Each grew into their new name and made a difference for the kingdom of God.

Which Saint inspired you

At their confirmation, many people take the name of a saint who inspires them.   What name did you choose?   What qualities about that saint made an impression on you?   Perhaps this saint set an example that you want to follow. Perhaps the saint’s name itself captures your hopes and dreams for your life in the Lord.   Well, no matter why you chose that name, know that God has honored your choice.   He has heard you speak, and he is breathing his power into you so that you can take on that saint’s likeness.   He is speaking that name over you right now, calling forth the new creation he has placed in you.

-word among us