November 18, 2024 The No-Names
Monday, November 18, 2024
The No-Names
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of joy instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:3, NIV
As I waited to speak to a small group of young adults who’d aged out of foster care, I settled into a chair, noticing a girl sitting apart from the others, eyes downcast. I introduced myself, sensing her quiet nature mirrored my own. She was Abbie*, a teen who had slipped in with friends but now sat alone, avoiding the lively banter from a nearby table.
When I began my presentation, Abbie shifted to the far end of the couch facing me. She remained quiet during our interactive games, letting the extroverts take the lead. Yet, at the end of my talk, when asked if someone would pray us out before dinner, her soft yet steady voice rose from the couch’s edge, “I will.”
Abbie thanked God for the day, the blessings, and the meal before us. “And,” she added “thank you for, uhhh, the lady…I can’t remember her name now, but she’s wearing the blue top … for coming and talking with us.” I was that lady in blue, silenced now by the lump in my throat and humbled by her unexpected gratitude.
I pray that the words God gave me to encourage Abbie and her peers will take root, inspiring them to embrace the good He planted in each of them, trading their past ashes for His crown of beauty.
As for me, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be only the “lady in the blue top.” I hope to live out the legacy of those no-names who made quiet but powerful differences — like the unnamed servant girl who led Naaman to healing, the widow who fed Elijah from her last morsel, or the nameless thief on the cross who recognized God beside him. Being nameless doesn’t matter if we can only make a difference.
Reflect: Who has been a “no-name” who impacted you in ways they may never realize? How might you express gratitude or pay that kindness forward?
Remember a time when you felt like a “no-name” in a situation but still sensed God using you to make an impact. How did that feel, and what did you learn?
Pray: Lord, thank You for the privilege of serving, even when it feels small or unseen. Help me to humbly follow Your lead, trusting that You work through my words and actions to touch others. May my life reflect Your love, and may I bring encouragement to those who need it most. In the name of Your Son, Amen.
*a pseudonym to maintain confidentiality. Our church Mission Team hopes to continue building relationships and establishing connection points with this ministry. Let me know if you are interested in becoming involved.
By His Grace,
Gloria Ashby
Lay Leader