There is an enormous population that feels invisible and unnamed. They are unseen, unknown, and their stories lie buried deep, waiting to be told, wanting to be visible, longing for someone to call their name. Funny how many places now you simply take a number and wait till that is called so you can transact your business. Stores even carry "no-name" brands that are lower in cost.
This week is a busy week in the home for ministry where I work as our guests this week are women from the downtown eastside of Vancouver, women who walk the streets, who are involved in the sex-trade. They are "visible" in their profession but the wounded woman who lies deep within has become invisible and the name they will give you is most likely not their real one.
As a child in school no one could remember my name, I sat at the back of the class hoping to be invisible - and for much of my life the real woman within has remained invisible. My true character and my name have always been known by Abba, but I have not always believed that. He does not hesitate to remind me:
"Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine."
"I'll never forget you - never. Look, I've written your names on the backs of my hands."
Being seen and being called by name are some of the essential ingredients to being in a safe place to tell our story. As I work in the kitchen, the gift of story is becoming such a rich gift and reward of my work. I love to call people by name, to say it, remember it and use it because it is part of their identity. It has often opened the door for conversations and as I mix, chop, make sauces, create the next meal - they will respond to the speaking of their name, and lay out their story. They have no idea they have added to the seasoning of their next meal - the seasoning of pain and tears has unique and precious flavour. In fact it is like saffron - it comes from deep within their beauty, is delicately retrieved, costly and unique and adds very distinct colour and flavour.
Zaccheaus was unnamed and invisible as Jesus was walking into Jericho - he did his best to remain that way too. What was his story? We are not told but Jesus wanted to hear it. By calling out Zaccheaus's name the invisibility was removed and identity was revealed - and a meal was shared!
One more reason I see to sit down at the table together and let the conversation flow - your name will be spoken, you will not remain invisible and if there is authentic community, unconditional love and grace, there will be the invitation to know more of your story. The invitation to know more of each ones story. As our beautiful guests come to the table over the next few days the only thing invisible will be the invitation from Abba - the Spirit hovering over each of us. Our names will be used regularly, stories will be heard. Grace wants to remove another layer of their invisibility and thereby reveal another layer of the Image Bearer who has called them each by name, written them each on His palm and waits for them to call His name.