Healing Rays of Righteousness

It has been said that we have three names; the name we inherit, the name our parents give us, and the name we make for ourselves, that is, our reputation.  And it is this dimension of our name that we are most responsible for, because our reputation is determined by our own actions, attitudes, and disposition.  As we grow into adulthood, our name soon becomes infused with our reputation.

Biblical writers clearly understood the importance of a name.  The Proverb writer states in 22:1 that “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”  I hear the writer saying that “a good name” is a most desirable possession for it causes the person “to be esteemed” in the community.  “A good name” indicates a good reputation of trustworthiness, gratitude, generosity, and compassionate regard for others need.

It’s interesting to note that God changed the names of certain persons because of a change in their reputation; such as Abram to Abraham “for I have made you a father of many nations,” Sarai to Sarah for “I will bless her so that she will be the mother of nations,” (Gen. 17:5 & 15), and Jacob to Israel “because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” (Gen. 32:28).

And so, if our name is based on our personal identity and reputation, then our moral and ethical choices do make a difference in how we are known to God and to others around us.  This appears to be what the writer of Proverbs understands for he repeatedly states that one’s reputation and esteem is based largely on how they relate to the poor and powerless in their community.

Furthermore, we find that throughout the Bible and especially in Proverbs, God is portrayed as the protector of the poor and the needy.  Proverbs 22:23-24 says, “Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life.”

The history of Israel is a testimony to the vengeance of God against those who mistreat the poor and disadvantaged.  The prophets Amos, Micah, Isaiah and Jeremiah all reiterated God’s vengeance visiting on those who abused the poor.  God expects His children to be concerned about the treatment of the poor, needy, disadvantaged, and vulnerable.

And yet in our day, far too many who call themselves Christian seem to have very little concern and compassion for the poor and the powerless.  Yes, they may go to church on Sunday, but all during the week they selfishly shove and ignore others to get ahead, to be number one in every line, being more concerned about earning a good wage than about earning a good name.

Most sadly, many of our top political and religious leaders preach and practice that power, possessions, and position are inherent in attaining the so-called “American Dream.”  In many ways we see that wealth and power most often takes priority over personal character.  How grievous and dishonoring this must be to the God who sacrificially loves all of us.

The writer of Proverbs encourages us to take a hard and serious look at our life choices related to economic justice and social compassion.  In 22:2 we are encouraged to consider our common humanity with all people, regardless of community standing for the “Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all.”

We are reminded that we will reap what we sow and that God will bless those who are generous, “for they share their food with the poor” (v.9).  And we are warned about the judgment of God, “Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court,  for the LORD will take up their case and will exact life for life.” (vv.22-23).

The Scriptures clearly indicate that our name is chosen, in part, by how we relate to those who are nameless in our society.  Our actions, attitudes, and disposition toward others reveal a lot about our true identity. We can and do choose our name, for we are named by the way we live.

In Proverbs 3, verses 3-4, “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.  Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”

What name have you chosen for yourself?

“Healing Rays of Righteousness” – March 13, 2019