The concept of a name is universal. Everything has a name along with everyone. Did you know that names from the beginning has had meanings and symbolism? Hebrew was the language for the Old Testament; the following are commonly known Old Testament Characters. The name Esau is Hebrew for "God Hears," Saul means "Asked," and Elijah means "Jehovah is my God." We learn that Abraham's first name was Abram which means "Exalted Father" and Abraham means "Father of a Multitude." Each of these characters didn't have their name because their mom thought it was cute. If you study these characters, you will find that their name's match their missions in life (their moms were inspired!).
My name also happens to be old Hebrew. Sarah means "princess" and Jane means "merciful." So even though technically my parents named me after my great grandma who left a marvelous legacy, perhaps I should consider what my name means and strive to be a merciful princess.
I am a daughter of the King of Heaven and Earth so I already have the entitled to be princess, but I need to step up if I want to reclaim and maintain my divine nature (which everybody has fyi). Heavenly Father has given us specific commandments and standards. Wouldn't I be the best princess ever if I learned how to keep all of His commandment continually?!
Now for Jane (merciful). As the Savior taught the people on the Sermon on the Mount and the Nephites when He visited them, he talked about mercy. The Savior taught, " blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy" (3 Nephi 12:7 & Matt 5:7). I want mercy, so I need to give it meaning I need to be forgiving and judge righteously. What a great reminder to have that in my name.
So basically, my name reminds me of my divine nature, what I need to be working on, and what my potential can be. I challenge you to look up your name and give it a meaning to help motivate you. If your name is something odd and you have a hard time connecting it to something, remember that when you were baptized (assuming you are LDS) you took upon the name of Christ. You are reminded of this each time you take the sacrament. Your name has meaning. This life has meaning. You have a purpose.
