‘My name is John Wesley Starnes, and I am a Methodist.’ 

I will always remember the day I met Mr Starnes as he entered the retirement home chapel. 

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, he faithfully attended worship services for a couple of years until he became too confused. 

I wondered if he even knew who he was anymore. One day I saw Mr Starnes in a hallway, and I greeted him, ‘Hey! Your name is John Wesley Starnes!’ He rolled toward me in his wheelchair and with bright eyes and a big smile replied, ‘Thank you for remembering my name and who I am.’

Jesus knows the power in a name. Upon hearing Jesus speak her name, Mary Magdalene immediately recognised him and went to tell the disciples of his resurrection. 

After being asked three times by his Saviour if he loved him, Simon Peter went on to build the Church (see John 21:15–19). Lazarus’ sister was set free from stress and anxiety with a simple, ‘Martha, Martha’.

I will always be thankful for Mr Starnes who reminded me that Jesus knows our names, who we are and what we are going through, and that he will be with us all the way to the end. I want to hear Jesus calling my name so that I might follow his will.

Prayer: Ever-living God, give us ears to hear, hearts that discern and courage to obey your voice. Amen