I wish I were better at remembering names. If I do not use a name very much I tend to forget it. I have known people who never forget someone’s name and it really is quite annoying. This little story may help explain my predicament. “Two elderly couples were enjoying friendly conversation when one of the men asked the other, "Fred, how was the memory clinic you went to last month?" "Outstanding," Fred replied. "They taught us all the latest psychological techiniques-visulization and association! It made a huge difference for me." "That's great! What was the name of the clinic?" Fred went blank He thought and thought, but couldn't remember. Then a smile broke across his face and he asked, "What do you call that flower with the long stem and thorns?" "You mean a rose?" "Yes, that's it!" He turned to his wife. . ."Rose, what was the name of that clinic?" I don’t think this is just about being elderly. The good news is God knows you by name. Luke 12:4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. ⁵ But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. ⁶ Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. ⁷ Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” “The Lord knows those who are His.” I was reading today in 1 Samuel 3 and God was calling Samuel by name. Samuel immediately responded, “Here I am.” Samuel did not yet know the Lord as the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him. After Eli the priest told him to say, Speak Lord for your servant is listening, God came and stood there calling to Samuel and Samuel responded. Be assured today that God knows your name. Isaiah 43:1-28 “but now, this is what the Lord says— He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 3 For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour; 4 you are precious and honoured in my sight, 5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you.” I may forget your name but our Lord God will not. He loves you and you are precious in His sight. Have you learned to hear the Lord calling your name? This is why I emphasize so much the reading of God’s word. This is His voice. If you do not read the word of God, how will you recognize His voice? The right answer when God calls is speak, for your servant is listening. Are you listening? Are you prepared to say, “Here I am.”