God’s Name Upon His People

God’s Name Upon His People || Scripture: Jeremiah 14:9 (NIV)
Evangelist Denise Barrett Abraham

“Why are you like a stranger in the land, like a traveler who stays only a night? Why are you like a man taken by surprise, like a warrior powerless to save? You are among us, Lord, and we bear your name; do not forsake us!”

Reflection
There is something powerful about bearing someone’s name. A name represents identity, belonging, and covering. In Jeremiah’s cry, the people of God had wandered spiritually. They were living in a way that made God’s presence feel distant—not because God had abandoned them, but because they had drifted from alignment with Him. Yet even in their brokenness, Jeremiah reminded God—and themselves—of this truth: “We bear your name.”

This passage reveals a tension many of us carry during Lent. We belong to God, yet there are places in our lives that remain unhealed, unaligned, or surrendered only halfway. God is not fixing His commitment to us—He is shaping our awareness of His presence. He is healing the distance created by distraction, pride, or self-reliance. He is restoring our identity as His people.

To bear God’s name means we are not abandoned, even when we feel exposed. It also means we are invited into responsibility—to live in a way that reflects Him. Lent is an invitation to honest reflection. Where have we been living as if God were a stranger? Where have we relied on our own strength instead of His covering? Where is God calling us back into alignment?

Surrender in this season looks like humility. It looks like releasing control and allowing God to restore what we cannot fix ourselves. It looks like daily choosing His presence over our preferences. His name upon us is not a burden—it is a promise. He is near. He is restoring.

He is shaping us into people who carry His presence with confidence and reverence.
Today, pause and remember: You are not forgotten. His name is upon you. Let that truth call you back into alignment, deeper trust, and full surrender.

Closing Prayer
Father, thank You that Your name is upon us. Even when we drift, You remain near, calling us back with love and mercy. Forgive us for the places where we have lived disconnected from Your presence. Heal what is broken within us, and restore our hearts to full alignment with You. Shape us into people who reflect Your character, carry Your presence, and walk in humble obedience. We surrender fully to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.