He Knows Your Name
In the 2012 film, Les Misérables, Hugh Jackman plays Jean Valjean, a convict recently let out on parole. Inspired by an encounter with a bishop, he decides to turn his life around. Although he was initially known as a criminal without a name, he takes on a new identity and changes his life for the better. He even begins to help others. The antagonist is the villainous Inspector Javert. He sees Valjean only as the convict he once was, rather than the humanitarian he has become. To Javert, he is simply prisoner number 24601.
I am truly not a fan of musicals, and only watched as far as the first song or two. However, I saw such a parallel in this story to so many followers of Christ. Although forgiven from their sins, many believers still see themselves as prisoner number 24601. When we accept Christ, we are made new and given a new name. He adopts us as children into His family. He gives us a new identity!
When we accept His wonderful, free gift of salvation, He writes our name in the Book of Life. Here is what the Bible says:
“…and I will not erase or blot out his name from the Book of Life; I will acknowledge him [as Mine] and I will confess his name openly before My Father and before His angels.” Revelation 3:5b (Amp)
Just as Valjean had to choose whether he wanted to live a life of crime or start a new life, we also must choose.
We decide whether or not to receive this free gift of salvation. If we reject God, the Bible describes this terrible consequence:
And if anyone’s [name] was not found recorded in the Book of Life, he was hurled into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:15 (Amp)
It is your name written and recorded, or your name not found in the book. God knows each one of us by name. It is His desire that none perish. Decide to live your life for Him and ask Him to write your name in His Book of Life right now.
Do you view yourself as you are in Christ or do you still see yourself as number 24601, a prisoner who thinks you will never be free? If you are a follower of Christ, He has given you a new identity in Him. See yourself as He sees you. You are His precious child and He knows you by name!
