Change of Name is the Sign of Change of the Person

Gospel Thoughts

*Lenten Season : C Cycle : 5th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 8:51-59*

*FIRST READING - Gn 17:3-9*

*Change of Name is the Sign of Change of the Person*

*Abram to Abraham*

*1) Change of Name*

In the first reading to today we find that the Name Abram was changed to Abraham

It is God who chsnges this name, which also meant that there is something deep in it 

Change of a signifies a very important role in the Life of Abraham

*2) Change of Name is the Change of Person*

Symbolically one can conclude that change of name is the symbol of change of personality

By changing His name, God is inviting Abraham to a new way of life, which will make him a new person and great person 

As we reflect later part of the Life of Abraham, he becomes a new figure in the Bible and also a great person 

*3) Change of Name and Greatness of Abraham*

We see great things in the life of Abraham

He was called the *Father of Faith* This is because of his great faith in God 

He was also called as the father of host of nations. Another great title is given to Abraham

Change of Name also indicates, that the change of Behaviour of Abraham. He became most obedient person to the Lord. He became most humble man on this earth 

So change of Name indicates lots of new things in the Life of Abraham. 

*4) New name is Given on Baptism*

All of had no name when we came into this world

But all of us were given a beautiful name on the day of Baptism. 

Giving new name on the day of Baptism means, we become new persons in Christ 

We become new in our faith 

We become new in our relationship, *Children of God*

We become new and we get new identity.

With new name we get new mission for our life 

With new name, we also get a new meaning to our life, since every name has a specific meaning. For example *Jyothi means - Light*

*5) Need to Find out the meaning of our name*

Since every name has a special meaning, our name has a beautiful meaning 

Christian names are pregnant with lots of divine meanings. By knowing the meaning of our name, we come to realise the richness of our name 

So it is better to find out the meaning of ones name, and need to live accordingly. 

*6) Some special things about name*

Name is most dear word to us 

When we hear our name, we become alert 

Name is not mere words, but the name carries the entire person and his personality 

When the names are wrongly pronounced, the person feels a lot

Name is a identity card of the person 

*7)  Am I ready to live according to my name?*

God has put a beautiful meaning in every name 

Let's realise the meaning of my name to live according to its meaning 

Let my name show to the entire world who am I? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*