“Nameless” People
“Nameless” People
Has anybody referred to you as “Mr. So-and-So”? As if he or she either couldn’t quite remember your name—and didn’t much care?
Most of us have had that dubious distinction somewhere along the line, labeled “Miss What’s-her-name” or “old What’s his-face.” Frankly, it hurts to think that someone can’t or won’t extend the simple courtesy of remembering your name.
But take heart, all of you “so-and-so’s” and “such-and-suches.” You are remembered! And you’re in fine company. Consider all those good, nameless people in the Bible.
In Hebrews 11, after the writer pinpoints sixteen well-known saints, he adds that he hardly has time to tell about Gideon and Samson and Samuel and David and the rest of the prophets.
Then he goes on to talk about “the others.” Unnamed folks who had just as much faith as those biblical celebrities in the chapter. In fact, the writer claims that the world wasn’t even worthy of this group of “what’s-their-names.” He closes out the chapter by saying that all of these “what’s-their-faces” were commended for their faith. Then, after penning this marvelous book of Hebrews, the writer neglects to sign his own name!
There are other anonymous players. In Matthew 26 Jesus directs His disciples to make preparations for the Passover. He says, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The teacher says … I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house’ ” (v. 18).
Beg pardon, Lord? We didn’t catch the name. Who in the world is this “certain man”? History will never know. In fact, so nameless was he that the Greek reads: “Go into the city and tell Mr. So-and-So …”
Let’s not forget the nameless people who provided the donkey for Jesus to ride in His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. And yes, the nameless person who provided solace and rest to the Master and His disciples by offering his garden … a quiet little spot called Gethsemane.
Perhaps you are tempted to feel like a “nobody” in the Kingdom of God. Your talents are few, you’re still looking for your spiritual gift, people frequently mistake you for someone else, and you’re half convinced you’ll never make a name for yourself. Anywhere. Ever.
Ah, be encouraged, friend. Even though your name may not roll off the tip of many tongues, God truly remembers who you are. He not only knows your name (first, last, and middle), He knows the exact number of hairs that grace the top of your head. He knows your heart, your worries, your dreams, and your deepest longings. As the Lord told Israel, your name is inscribed on the palms of His hands.
Furthermore, there’s no “what’s-his-name” or “who’s-a-which” written down in the Lamb’s Book of Life. That’s your name written there. A name well known in heaven. And well loved.