Objects suggested: An attractive name tag for each child or write each child’s name on a pre-designed decorated poster.

Let’s talk about names today. When you were born your parents were very thoughtful about picking a name that would suit you. They wanted to pick just exactly the right name because names are important. They become a part of who we are.

Doesn’t if make you feel good when people remember your name? Calling someone by their correct name is a way of showing respect. Can you imagine how it would be to play with your friends if you or they didn’t have a name?

Some people have nicknames and this is usually a sign of affection. Perhaps someone named Thomas is called Tom or Rebecca may be changed to Becky.

Then there are hurtful names. When some people get angry they may call others hurtful names like “stupid” or “ugly.” These names can really hurt.

In the Bible Jesus teaches us about the importance of a name. One of his disciples asked Jesus to “teach us to pray (11:1).

Jesus taught the disciples a prayer which we now call The Lord’s Prayer. Some of you may know it by heart. Jesus said, “When you pray, say, Our Father in heaven,
may your name be kept holy” (11:2).

Jesus teaches us that we may call God “Father,” a name that makes us feel like God’s children – a name that makes us feel loved and cared for. He teaches that God’s name is holy. This is a word that means sacred or given the very most respect.

God’s name is holy, just as God is holy. When we pray and say, “may your name be kept holy (hallowed be your name)” we are remembering who God is and showing respect for God’s name.

Scripture quotations from the World English Bible

Copyright 2008, Richard Niell Donovan