What's in a name?

We have been talking about names around here lately.

 Andy's class has some foreign students attending, and one of them, I think it is the Egyptian, has a very long, complicated name. You see, he has his own name, his father's, grandfather's and great-grandfather's - all in a row. That is a lot to keep up with!

 Canaan already carries his father's name in the middle. 

Zion carries a piece of my family history. 

 and that last name, the "family name", there is such a bond in that. 

 I will always, and forever, be one of the Binkley girls. Nothing can change my roots. My bond with my sisters and amazing parents. To belong to both my father and my mother's family tree, and the amazing history that has been followed back so far and has stories that are thrilling to recall- I am honored.

But...

 Now I am also so very glad to be a Freeman. To be claimed, and accepted into the family of my true love. I eagerly listen to the stories of their history, and make sure they are passed to our children.

 The stories of the history of our names.

 But what about the names of the present?

 I know the legal names I carry; the one that was given to me, just for me (Bethany); the one to carry on the past (Ruth, for my grandmother); and the one I acquired when I promised my future to my best friend (Freeman).

 But there are other's out there too.

 Wife. Mom. Sister. Daughter. Friend. Teacher. Writer, when time allows.

 Am I remembering to leave a spot for my most important name?

 Child of the King! Redeemed, called to praise, and eager to shine His glory.

 So many names. It's almost overwhelming if I thinking about it too much. Which one needs my attention most right now? Which name am I responding to at this moment in time? But if I pause and remember for just a minute-

 The names fit together so well to become,

just one me. 

Blessings,