What's in a Name?

"When her days to give birth were completed, behold, there were twins in her womb." (Gen. 25:24)

Isaac and Rebekah's first children were Esau and Jacob. As you remember, Esau was born first, but as he came out, his twin brother was holding onto his heel. They named the second born, Jacob, which means "he cheats". All through his early years Jacob struggled with his name, a cheater, a supplanter, a trickster. I wonder how many people live their lives under a label that shapes them to be what they become.

So what is in a name? Chances are you never considered naming your daughter, Jezebel, or your son, Judas. It is amazing how a name conjures up certain images. If I say, "Bill Gates" you think, money. If I say, "Mel Gibson" you think actor. If I say, "Adolph Hitler" you think, evil. If I say, "Albert Einstein" you think genius. Just a name, but it conjures up certain images.

The first encounter we see of Jacob and Esau is as young men, Esau comes in from hunting famished. Jacob is cooking a pot of stew, and he tricks his brother into selling his birthright. Living up to his name from the start. What is your name? What does it mean?

Do you bear the name "Christian"? What does that mean? As the people of the world around you see you, and know that you testify of knowing Christ, can they see the resemblance between Him and you?