A New Name

So much of what we’ve talked about on the Therapist Series has been about seeing ourselves in new ways and taking on a new self that is made in the image of Christ.

There’s this great verse in Revelation where Jesus is speaking to those who are trying hard to keep growing in faith, even though it’s not easy. “I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it” (Revelation 2:17). It’s a sort of echo back to when Hagar named God.

Names are important. As you read this poem today, ask God to speak with you about the new name God might be giving you and the new name for God that represents how you’re growing into a new depth with God.

Prayer for a New Name
By Padraig O Tuama

God of Hagar
when Hagar was exiled in the desert
she met you
and gave you a name;
the Living One
Who Sees Me

We have walked far
and have seen many things
and now
because of what we have seen
because of where we are going
because of where we are
we give this new name now.

We do not destroy past names
because they have brought us here.

We celebrate the new name
that will bring us on.

Because you are known by many names -
names which bring us on.

Amen.