Called by My Name: Why I Don’t Have to Fear When God Knows my Name

Isaiah 43:1 ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine.’

Well, good morning, friends. It’s one of those days where the sun is putting on a lovely show, but the temperature didn’t get the memo about warmth. Brisk. Crisp. The kind of air that wakes you right up whether you like it or not. And honestly? I’m here for it. Because in ten days, TEN DAYS, can you believe it? I land in Adelaide, Australia. Let me tell you, my heart is doing a happy dance that would embarrass any professional dancer. I’ll see my daughter. My son-in-law. My two granddaughters. Three whole months of hugs, laughter, probably some chaos, and definitely too much coffee. The joy of knowing I’ll be with them? Unmatched. Except for this one thing. This morning, I was rummaging around in my memory (and my jewellery box) and I found a bracelet my husband gave me ten years ago. Not diamonds. Not gold that would impress a king. Just a simple reminder: God has called me by my name. Stop right there. Read that again. Called. By. My. Name. Not “hey you.” Not “that one over there.” Not “eh, she’ll do.” My name. And then He adds, just in case I’m feeling wobbly: You are Mine. Not you’re mine if you behave. Not you’re mine until you mess up. Just… Mine. That’s the kind of belonging that makes a person sit up straight. That’s the kind of love that laughs in the face of fear. Because fear? Fear wants me to believe I’m forgotten. Fear whispers that I’m on my own. But the Lord says, “I redeemed you. I know your name. And I’m actively, personally, tenderly involved in your life.” I don’t have to be afraid. Not of travel hiccups. Not of the future. Not of that one thing you’re worrying about right now as you read this. He’s delivered me before. He’ll do it again. Prayer Lord, thank You. Thank You that I belong to You, not as a distant fan, but as Your own. Thank You that You know my name and still choose me. Help me not to live in fear, but to rest in Your ridiculous, relentless love. And Lord? I’m bringing my mom to You today. Her trip to Australia. Because without flights, she’s not going anywhere, and we both know that’s a problem only You can solve. I’m standing in the gap yes, right here, coffee in hand, asking for an open door. Work on hearts. Move the right people. Make a way where there seems to be no way. We’ve come so far. Now let that door swing wide open. We trust You. We thank You. Your will be done here, there, and all the way to Australia. In the mighty name of Jesus, amen.