A Good Name

I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of His name. - 1 John 2:12

When I lived in West Africa, I received an African (Jula) name. Names are important over there and once you have received yours you will be known by it as long as you live. For example, a missionary (into whose former house we moved when we first arrived) was known as Umar. Locals "knew" Umar's truck and Umar's house. They knew "Umar." In fact, I am sure that many thought Umar had returned (since I also drove "Umar's" truck, until they actually met me.

"Umar" and his family did an amazing work in the country where we served. In many ways, I had some credibility and good will because of his good name. In the same way, I had to be careful not to discredit him, or worse, discredit the name of Christ through my own inappropriate attitudes or actions. Many thought well of the Savior, because Umar had represented our Savior well.

Thanks to the name of Christ, I (like you) have always had the opportunity to start well when on a new assignment, but it is a responsibility that should never be taken lightly. Jesus has a good name and we should do everything we can to guard it.

If I take care of my character, my reputation will take care of me. - Dwight L. Moody