We are called specifically by Name
Choosing a child’s name is an arduous process of research, hope, and expectation: names often convey first impressions, meaning and connotation, reputation, lineage, relationship, and as one faculty reflected, protection in some cultures by not speaking a name for fear the spirits will then find the child.
In the text read during the Faculty Prayer Lunch one week recently, the gathered group found it significant that God, rather than hiding names, calls people specifically by name. God also gave names (i.e. Jacob to Israel, John the Baptist, even Jesus) to reflect their role in the great rescue plan for God’s people and creation. What role are you being called to fulfill in God’s plan?
As the hope of Spring piqued interest last week, the conversation among a handful of faculty and staff is being sown around the topic of identity: how is this group of Christian faculty and staff known on campus? to what might God be calling us by name? how could the name ‘Christian’ be nurtured to connote a community of faithful people who follow God in word and deed, rather than untrue caricatures? where are our professional, family, and faith names in harmony or discord? what name does God have for this budding work among faculty and graduate students here?
More voices are needed as discernment progresses toward the engagement of God’s mission to be Christ to those around us whether in the classroom, in the department meeting room, in the common spaces, or in the community. There is always time for a cup of coffee and good conversation! So please do connect with Kirsten or another faculty or staff member this month.
