IN THE MARGINS: When Jesus calls your name 

By Tony Martin
Editor 

Have you ever stood in a crowded room, surrounded by a constant buzz of chatter, laughter, and noise, when suddenly someone distinctly calls your name? In that instant, your attention shifts, your heart skips a beat, and a deep sense of recognition floods over you. There’s something uniquely powerful about hearing our names spoken — especially when uttered by someone we deeply love and trust. 

On the very first Easter morning, Mary Magdalene had exactly this experience. She stood heartbroken beside the empty tomb of Jesus, overwhelmed by grief and confusion. She had watched the brutal crucifixion of her friend, her teacher, her Lord. Her world, which had been filled with hope and purpose, suddenly felt shattered and meaningless. Her tears blurred her vision, and questions swirled relentlessly in her mind: Was all hope truly lost? Had everything she had believed and trusted crumbled into nothing? 

Yet precisely in that moment of deepest despair, a gentle, familiar voice cut through her grief with just one word: “Mary” (John 20:16). It wasn’t loud or dramatic. It didn’t echo powerfully from the heavens. It was a simple whisper, tenderly spoken by Jesus himself. Instantly, Mary recognized Him. Her heart leaped, and her sorrow transformed into overwhelming joy. 

Think for a moment about the profound intimacy of this encounter. Jesus, freshly risen from conquering death itself, chose His first resurrection appearance not to make a grand proclamation to the masses, but to comfort one grieving woman by calling her name. It was a profoundly personal encounter, designed to meet her exactly where she was — in her confusion, in her grief. 

Now, I invite you to imagine this Easter morning, Jesus softly and lovingly speaking your name. Yes, your name. Perhaps right now you’re facing situations that seem overwhelming — grief, anxiety, uncertainty, or even loneliness. Perhaps life’s relentless busyness or personal struggles have drowned out your awareness of His presence. But today, the risen Christ gently calls your name, reminding you of His intimate and unwavering love for you. 

Isaiah 43:1 beautifully affirms, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” These aren’t merely comforting words — they are a profound promise from God. When Jesus calls your name, He speaks directly into your soul, affirming your identity, your worth, and His deep claim upon your life. Your pain, your doubts, and even your failures don’t separate you from Him. Instead, He meets you right there, precisely at your point of need. 

Throughout the Bible, God consistently called individuals by name during transformative moments. He called Moses by name from within a burning bush, turning a frightened fugitive into a courageous leader. He called young Samuel softly in the quiet of night, guiding him into prophetic purpose. He called Saul dramatically on the Damascus road, redirecting his zealousness from persecution to passionate evangelism. Each of these encounters was personal, direct, and life-changing. 

This Easter, I encourage you to quiet your heart and allow yourself to hear the risen Christ gently whisper your name. Allow this beautiful truth to deeply resonate within you: You are known. You are cherished. You are never alone. Your life carries profound purpose, and your hope remains alive because Christ Himself is alive. 

So, how should we respond when Jesus calls our name? 

Firstly, we listen with openness and recognition. Mary’s immediate reaction was to turn toward Him, fully attentive. When Jesus calls, let His voice drown out all your fears, doubts, and distractions. 

Secondly, we respond with trust. Hearing Jesus say your name means He sees you completely. He knows your past, understands your present struggles, and sees your deepest hopes. Yet, His love remains steadfast. Trust that His call invites you into deeper intimacy, renewed strength, and lasting hope. 

Finally, we share this profound encounter with others. Mary didn’t keep this encounter to herself. Immediately after recognizing Jesus, she joyfully ran to the disciples, declaring, “I have seen the Lord!” (John 20:18). Her personal experience compelled her to share hope and joy. 

Friends, Easter is not merely a grand cosmic victory; it’s deeply personal. It’s about the risen Christ encountering ordinary individuals — Mary Magdalene, me, and you — in profoundly intimate ways. It’s about Jesus calling us by name, inviting us into His victorious life. 

This Easter season, may you hear the risen Christ tenderly and unmistakably call your name. Know deeply in your heart that you are personally loved, intimately known, and infinitely valued. He is risen indeed—and today, He calls you personally into everlasting hope.