Have you ever wondered what your name would be if God gave you a new one? Throughout the Bible, we see examples of people whose names were changed by God, signifying a profound transformation and new identity. Let’s explore some of these stories and reflect on the transformative power of encountering God’s love and grace.

One remarkable example is the transformation of Saul to Paul, as described in Acts 9:1-19. Saul was initially a fierce persecutor of Christians, known for his zealous efforts to eradicate the early church. However, his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus resulted in a radical transformation. Saul, who once persecuted Christians, became Paul, a great apostle and missionary for Christ. This transformation demonstrates that God can change anyone, regardless of their past or actions.

Another powerful story of transformation is found in Luke 7:36-50, where Jesus encounters a sinful woman. Despite her past, this woman demonstrates her faith and repentance by washing Jesus’ feet with her tears, wiping them with her hair, and anointing them with expensive perfume. Jesus acknowledges her genuine faith and forgives her sins, illustrating God’s boundless love and forgiveness. This story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and His love has the power to transform lives.

The parable of the prodigal son, found in Luke 15:11-32, also illustrates the transformative power of God’s love. The son in this parable squanders his inheritance on reckless living but eventually returns to his father in humility and repentance. The father, symbolic of God, welcomes his lost son back with open arms, celebrating his return. This parable highlights God’s joy when we turn back to Him, emphasizing the transformative nature of His love and forgiveness.

Romans 12:2 supports this theme of transformation, urging us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. The Greek word for “transformed” used here is “metamorphoo,” also used in reference to Jesus’ transfiguration in Matthew 17:2 and Mark 9:2. This suggests that our transformation is a divine change, initiated and empowered by God’s grace.

As we reflect on these stories of transformation, may we be reminded of the power of God’s love to change hearts and lives. Just as Saul became Paul, the sinful woman found forgiveness, and the prodigal son returned to his father, we too can experience transformation through encountering God’s grace. Isaiah 43:1, where God calls us by name. This shows that God knows us personally. Let’s embrace our new identity in Christ, living as beloved children of God, redeemed and transformed by His love.