Underwood Unplugged

Today, Jennie and I found out the gender of our second child, to be born on December 25th. How ironic, a Christmas baby!

We haven't told anyone the baby's name yet, and that's because we don't know. Very few decisions in life will last as long as this whole "name-giving thing."

My parents named me Gary "Noel" Underwood. Throughout the years, my "friends" have joked about either the Christmas-like nature of that name or even the feminine counterpart - "Noelle." But that name comes from Pastor Noel Irwin, a wise, caring, and respected role model for my parents.

During my life, I've been proud of my name. "Gary" means "loyal warrior." LOVE that! Throughout history, a person's name has been associated with his reputation, her abilities, or his family.

Only a select few choose to wear a different name. Believe it or not, you're not necessarily stuck with whatever name your parents gave you. In fact, every day is a chance to upgrade that name with the way you live and how you treat other people.

As we think about giving our Christmas baby a name, I am reminded of the most important name of all.

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Colossians 3:17 NIV)