I love Marvel movies. One of Marvel’s most comical series is Guardians of the Galaxy. The most beloved Guardian is a character named GROOT. Groot is an animated tree. Groot can speak, but the only words he ever says are a reflection of his identity, “I AM GROOT!” The voicing of this character (by Vin Diesel) is about him knowing, being known, and becoming secure in his identity and character.
Who are you? What is your name? What does it mean? My name, Sherman, means sheep shearer, a shepherd who cuts off the nap/wool from sheep. In the natural and the spiritual—Sherman’s are needed. It’s one thing to know the derivation of your name…but each time you say your name, or you engage people, every time you enter a room…you are making a name for yourself or there is a reputation associated with your name.
In Matthew 16:12-16, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do men say that I the Son of Man am?” They answered, some say you are John the Baptist, or Elijah or one of the prophets. He asked, “But who do YOU say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” Jesus said that flesh and blood did not reveal that truth to Peter, it had to be revealed by God the Father. In some circles the same person with the same name can be honored; in others, they can be diminished, rejected, or despised. This happened to Jesus. That’s why it’s so important to know who you are. But it’s more important to know who He is!
In Exodus 3, Moses is minding his own business when God calls his name. Moses’ name means deliverer. There is purpose, power, and destiny in his name.
God calls Moses by his name – deliverer, before HE even understands the totality of what his name means. God gets his attention with the miracle of the burning bush. 15 And God said moreover unto Moses, thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.
God is saying never forget who I Am…and always remember who has sent you in the days, years, and moments to come (cause you’re gonna need it) I AM is a poetic expression of God’s very nature. God’s word and presence were in His nature and character long before this Bible was put to print! Before time began, I Am…and after time concludes I Am!
-Pastor Sherman