Howard Young

Our Middle Name is “Evangelical”

Growing up as a child, I was embarrassed of my middle name “Ole.” My parents proudly named me “Howard” after their good friend Howard Hodnet, and “Ole,” after my dear Grandpa Ole Remmen. Whenever someone used my middle name, I knew I was in trouble if it came from my Mother or was being poked fun at by some child.

Despite my embarrassment, I survived the childhood teasing of my middle name. Now after 40 plus years of growing up, I recognize my parent’s wisdom in their choice of my name: good friendship and love and honor for my Grandfather.

Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church also has a middle name: “Evangelical.” I often wonder why we use shorten forms our Church’s name such as “Holy Trinity” or “Holy Trinity Lutheran” and leave out “Evangelical.” Perhaps the shorter versions are more convenient to use? I know that it is difficult to squeeze “Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church” onto our offering checks we write each week.

Holy Trinity’s “parents” also chose a wise name for our Church: for the love of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit, three-in-one; and, Evangelical – to share the good news that there is salvation through Christ.

In 2 Timothy 4:2, the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy: “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” In this season of Lent, Easter and soon to follow Pentecost, are we prepared to live up to our middle name and share the good news?

Like Paul, I encourage you to share with your family, friends and neighbors the good news of Christ. Invite them to Holy Trinity “Evangelical” Lutheran Church to hear the Word of God that through Christ there is salvation.

Howard “Ole” Young

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