In September, Dale and I will welcome the birth of our third grandchild.  Already much careful thought and planning has gone into the name for this child.  For myself, being born in China, I was first introduced to newcomers as ‘Daughter #3 of Rev. Nelson.’  This not only gave information about my gender, but also a little understanding of my status in life so that the person informed would have a general idea of how to relate to me.  Reflecting the family name was particularly important!

My name was also deliberately chosen to be pleasing in tone and meaning.  I became Ai Loh or “Loving Happiness” to fit nicely alongside my two sisters Ai Deh and Ai Ling ~ “Loving Virtue” and “Loving Radiance.” Much more melodious than the English ~ Carol, Ardie and Marilyn!

However it didn’t stop there, not only should my name sound pleasant and have meaning reflecting well on the family, but my address should sound equally lofty.  True to form, I lived on Heavenly Peace Street in Lotus Blossom Village in The Land Of Eternal Spring in the Land Beyond the Clouds!  Sounds like someplace out of Narnia or Pilgrim’s Progress doesn’t it?  It also makes for quite an impressive return address on snail mail before that becomes obsolete.

Now that I have returned to Hong Kong, China I have been given a new name meaning “Listening for the Dews of Canaan” which I think fits beautifully with my role within KKI as intercessor.

In many developing nations such as in Asia and the South Pacific if I’m not mistaken, children are often merely called “Boy”, especially if there happen to be too many girls in the family and the ‘boy’ is often dressed and raised as a girl. Imagine the identity and self esteem issues!!

Throughout the Bible, specific instructions were given by angels concerning the birth of significant persons. Saul’s name was changed to Paul on his conversion to give him a new identity amongst the people.

Why am I emphasizing this topic during this month?  It’s because outreach season is upon us and we are going out as Christ’s ambassadors; representing Him and bearing His name. Ephesians 4 verse 1 says: “Walk in a manner worthy of your calling…”

In Hong Kong, the top winning racehorse goes by the name “Silent Witness”. This racehorse is a continual reminder to me to run my own race with excellence making my master proud and laying trophies at His feet.

“I have called you by name; I have given you a title of honor”

and in Isaiah 43:1-2

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; You are Mine!”

King’s Kids Worldwide ~ Represent him well this summer ~ Hold your head up high ~ You Belong to Him! His name is powerful! 

You carry the Family Name!

Carol Kauffman