…the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledest me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down. And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again… And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child… And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth. (1 Samuel 3:6-10, KJV)

Last night a minister at our church briefly mentioned how powerful it is when God calls your name. It reminded me of something out of my own life.

My first name is of Spanish origin. My family speaks Spanish. So I pronounce my name with a Spanish accent. Most people find it very difficult to say my name correctly and choose to say it with an English sounding pronunciation, but then to me it isn’t really my name any longer. I don’t really mind, but it isn’t quite the same.

I remember how much it thrilled my heart when my husband, who only speaks English, began to pronounce my name correctly while we were still dating. He has mastered it now and it still blesses me to hear him say my name.

Then came the day that  I realized that God pronounced my name correctly. I know it sounds funny. He had spoken my name many times before, but one day I suddenly realized He spoke my name with a beautiful Spanish accent. The King of the Universe knows my name. He calls me by name. And every time it’s like music to my ears.

The minister at church last night mentioned the account of Mary at the tomb after Jesus’ resurrection. Let’s take a look at it.

…she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him… Master. (John 20:14-16, KJV)

She didn’t even recognize Him. She thought He was the gardener. But when He spoke her name, she knew it was Him.

Listen for His call. Of course, He is going to call you by your name, but don’t let the preciousness of that escape you. Listen for the depth of the call… the love that He speaks as He says your name.

This Mighty Being, the Everlasting God, the Creator of the Universe can have millions of children across this earth and yet He makes it so personal by calling your name.

…Fear not, for I have redeemed you [ransomed you by paying a price instead of leaving you captives]; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. (Isaiah 43:1, Amplified)