What's In A Name?

“Take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the tribes of Israel. Six names will be on each stone, arranged in the order of the births of the original sons of Israel. Engrave these names on the two stones in the same way a jeweler engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in settings of gold filigree. Fasten the two stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as a reminder that Aaron represents the people of Israel. Aaron will carry these names on his shoulders as a constant reminder whenever he goes before the LORD. Make the settings of gold filigree, then braid two cords of pure gold and attach them to the filigree settings on the shoulders of the ephod. [Exodus 28.9-14]

I am intrigued by this passage of scripture. And, not only the passage above, but also the passage below:

“Then, with great skill and care, make a chestpiece to be worn for seeking a decision from God. Make it to match the ephod, using finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. Make the chestpiece of a single piece of cloth folded to form a pouch nine inches square. Mount four rows of gemstones on it. The first row will contain a red carnelian, a pale-green peridot, and an emerald. The second row will contain a turquoise, a blue lapis lazuli, and a white moonstone. The third row will contain an orange jacinth, an agate, and a purple amethyst. The fourth row will contain a blue-green beryl, an onyx, and a green jasper. All these stones will be set in gold filigree. Each stone will represent one of the twelve sons of Israel, and the name of that tribe will be engraved on it like a seal. [Exodus 28.15-21]

And then skip to verse 29:

“In this way, Aaron will carry the names of the tribes of Israel on the sacred chestpiece over his heart when he goes into the Holy Place. This will be a continual reminder that he represents the people when he comes before the LORD. [Exodus 28.29]

When it comes to 'coming before God,' names matter.

What is prayer if it is not 'coming before God?' I believe that it is important, in prayer, to remember that we come before God with purpose. That purpose is others. Sure, we can pray for ourselves, but for some reason (duh) God had the names of the twelve tribes inscribed on stones and strategically placed on Aaron's body as reminders that his work was for the people.

The fact that stones were used tells me that bringing names before God is a permanent duty. The fact that they were precious stones tells me how important the permanence of praying for others is. The fact that the stones were set in gold confirms that prayer for others is a God-thing.

I have a confession. For far too many years, I viewed a prayer list as an add-on to my prayer life. I suppose my main goal in prayer was my own need. A prayer list seemed burdensome and tedious.

Ironically now, prayer lists are the focal point of my prayer. And, they are, most of the time, still burdensome and tedious. However, God has begun to allow me to see that my prayer lists are, in fact, precious stones. The people named on these lists matter to Him (the essence of those stones mentioned here being set in gold).

The first set of stones put on Aaron's two shoulders very much speaks of the burden of prayer because shoulders always represent the capacity to carry. And, even though the shoulder stones represent "burden" they are indeed set in gold - it is a God-thing to carry others before God.

The second set of stones described here are carried over Aaron's heart. I don't think much explanation of this location is necessary! Again, the gold settings tells me just how important those names are.

So, what's in a name? I can't say for sure. But I can, today, say this: the placement and treatment of those names matters to God!

Where do I carry the names of those God has made me responsible for?

Wow, my mind is overwhelmed at this moment...

Father, thank You for showing me just how important a matter it is to take on the responsibility of 'bringing others before You."  May I be found faithful to the responsibility I have been given.