20 August | Youth
«I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.» Revelation 2:17
When someone signs their name in a clearly visible place, they send a message to the world. First: “I exist.” Second: “I am important.” It has been like this throughout the history of humanity. We develop the habit of writing our name in places that attract attention. Artists put their signature on their works. Architects, engineers, poets, playwrights, writers and wall painters too. The name marks. Furthermore: the name is a brand. Did you know that God will change yours? And the reason for this is simple: You are a work of art conceived, developed and made by Him. God wants to leave His name on you.
Since you were born, because of the damage that sin caused, God has worked to restore in you His image and give you a new character, that is, a new name. It will not be like a childhood nickname that reminds you of how clumsy you were or how strange you looked or the way you were. It will not represent your family's traditions, your parents' preferences, or the peculiarities of your language. Best of all, it will never be placed on a tombstone or memorial plaque. It will no longer make sense to have your name written on the door, on the diploma, on the visa, on the badge, or on the trophy. God will be everything for you.
I remember when, shortly after graduating, I (Júlio) started teaching at the same college and at the same school from which I had just graduated. The staff did not know me by name and thought I was still a student. One day, I went to the equipment manager to get an overhead projector. He said to me dryly: “Only the teacher can take it!” Obviously, I did not have a sign on my forehead that said “teacher.” For him, I was the same as always.
However, the day will come when God transforms us. Then the only valid title, label, or name we will have will be the one God gives us. When this happens, the restoration will be complete, and the work of art will be perfect again, to our happiness and to the satisfaction of the Universe. I can barely wait to get in line for the little white stone mentioned in Revelation. How about you?