Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.

    I have called you by name; you are mine.

Isaiah 43:1 (NLT)

See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands.

Isaiah 49:16 (NLT)

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Tradition is important to me and my family knows that on your birthday to expect an early morning phone call that begins with, “Happy Birthday to you…!”

I met Mark on the Internet and only a few weeks into our friendship, I flew off to take care of the grandgirlies. The day before I left, I received a beautiful bouquet of red roses with a card that read, “I’ll work hard to see that you remember my name.” (Bonus points!)

I like cards. Mark and I have started the tradition of buying several cards — holidays, anniversary, birthdays — and having them pop up during the day as a way to celebrate the moment.

Recently, we celebrated our eleventh anniversary. I posted a couple of wedding pictures on Facebook and received 87 “likes.” It was not a particularly “special” year but it was a reminder that we had made it through some tough ones. As I reflected on all the people who cared about us, it brought me to tears. So many know my name.

But even if no one ever notices me or remembers one special day, I know that God has not forgotten. My Heavenly Father loves me yesterday, today, and forever. He doesn’t have to ask me how to spell my name — He’s got it written on the palm of His hand. How can I not love this One who gave His very life for me?

He remembers my name…