Martha Harper writes about a group of professional people who asked a group of 4 to 8 year olds, “What does love mean?” There were the usual endearing answers. Five year old Elaine replied, “Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken. According to 7 year old Chris, “Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Brad Pitt.” Nikka, age 6 has this advice, “If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.” Every parent can agree with 4 year old Terri’s insightfulness, “Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.” Have you ever noticed the wisdom that comes from innocence? Children have the unique ability to bypass all the peripheral junk and get to the real meaning of life.
My favorite quote comes from 4 year old Billy, “When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.” No one says my name quite the way my husband, Steve, does. Whether his tone is loving, aggravated, questioning or even sometimes “accusing,” I know my name is safe in his mouth.
Mary was downcast, all hope was gone, for Jesus had died and been placed in the tomb. Every time she closed her eyes all she could see was His face, the tender smile and eyes full of forgiveness. She longed for His gentle touch on her head and if she could only here Him call her name; maybe rest would come to her weary body. Finally, she arose from her bed and went to the place where they had laid Him. The tomb was empty, now she was confused. Was there no end to her grief? With tears streaming down her face, she began to walk toward a gardener standing a short distance away. Maybe he would know who had taken Jesus’ body. Surely he could direct her to the new burial place. Then He spoke her name, “Mary.” There was that voice, no one could say her name like Jesus; she felt so safe as peace flooded her soul.
Walking down the street or sitting at your desk, you will hear the name of Jesus several times a day and most of the time it has nothing to do with our precious Savior. It is a term that is used like any other word to mean anything but what was intended. I believe there is nothing so precious to Jesus then to hear his children say His Name. All of Heaven stands at attention when the Redeemed begin to call on the Name of Jesus. No one can speak that Name quite like we who have been filled with His Spirit and taken on His Name in baptism. He knows His name is safe in our mouth. We can call His Name often; He is never too tired or busy.
Eight year old Jessica wraps it up with her comment, “You really shouldn’t say, “I love you,” unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.” Is there anyone in your life that has forgotten that you love them? Has it been too long since you spent a little time with God letting Him know how much He means to you or maybe just speaking His Name? Hopefully, it hasn’t been so long that He’s forgotten. Take a little time this weekend to let the ones you care about hear you say it. Say their name in a way that makes them feel safe. Make sure you include Jesus in your circle of loved ones. When He hears your voice, He will whisper your name back.
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