Recently, I came across one of the most inspiring poems I’ve ever
read, yet the poet’s name was not familiar to me. When I searched online, I found the poet had written a book in the 1920's, but I still found it odd that no biographical info was
available. Maybe the book provides more information, but I doubt it because volumes
of that time did not often include biographies.
I have prayed through the years that whether it be in my
music, art, or writing, that I would disappear, and only Jesus would remain. I
want to be a transparent vessel for Him. And yet, in our humanity that’s a
tough thing to deal with. This poet’s words have remained illuminating the path
of those who followed her, but we don’t even
know what country she lived in, only that God bestowed on a person with her
name a gift of writing words that would draw others to Him.
Yes, recognition for our work if affirming, but we must always
keep at the forefront of our minds whose name is important, and that name is Jesus.
I’m sure if we could interview our poet in heaven, she would
tell us it has never mattered that the details of her life have been lost in
history, because she has a full-time job now giving glory and praise to the one
whose name matters more than any other.
Though there are close to two thousand songs with a similar
name to “No Other Name,” the one that
remains my favorite was performed by Sandi Patty. And if you have never heard
it, I include a link, because I think her rendition gives us a glimpse through
the heavenly portal.
When we struggle with being invisible, let’s remember we are
seen by our creator, the one whose name is above any other and our praise of
that name will continue into eternity.
Sandi Patty, “No Other Name but Jesus”