There is something that cuts through the clutter of noise in one’s life, through the confusion of hectic thoughts fueled by past fears or present problems, something that brings peace and assurance, and establishes a rest for your soul in a split moment. 

“Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who are you looking for?” She thought he was the gardener. “Tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.” “Mary!” Jesus said. John 20:15,16

Mary was looking for her Savior to anoint him with spices. But when she arrived early Sunday morning to the tomb in which he was placed on Friday, the tomb was empty. She was troubled. “Where have they taken him? Where is my Lord?”  

When Jesus speaks her name, all the fog of concern, the feelings running high and the tears of loss are quieted. He speaks her name and the storm is calmed. He speaks her name and she is at home, instantly at rest. Jesus said that his sheep know his voice. The good shepherd knows your name and will speak into your heart and mind in times of strain and uncertainty. This has happened a number of times in my life, through his Word as I ponder it in my devotions, through a brother in Christ speaking something he’s discovered walking by faith. It has taken place as I’ve cried out to him in prayer and then wait upon him. A simple impression of grace comes to mind and peace captures the cobwebs. My prayer for you today is that you will linger a short while like Mary did in the garden and that your Lord would whisper your name. That on hearing his clear and beautiful voice, all that is of this world would grow strangely dim and your soul would find rest.