If you were a fan of the TV show Cheers, or have ever seen any episodes on Netflix, you probably remember its theme song. Maybe you can even sing it from memory: “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.”

It’s a comforting song, cute without being cloying, and a reminder that names and community are important. Names tell us that we are not anonymous and interchangeable, but unique creatures of God who are known and loved. We have distinct gifts and ways of being; we are blessed when we a find a place that knows and accepts us for who we are.

We can take a valuable lesson from the sheep—they know who cares for them. They recognize the voice of their shepherd and listen when he calls to them. When have we done the same?

By Christine Vogel from D365