Sunday, January 11 I have made your name known.​—John 17:26.

[Anniebea]

Sunday, January 11

I have made your name known.—John 17:26.

 

We count it a privilege to share the truth about God’s Kingdom with others! That privilege is not open to just anyone. For instance, when Jesus was on earth, he did not allow the wicked spirits to witness about him. (Luke 4:41) Today, before a person shares in the ministry with Jehovah’s people, he must qualify for the privilege. We show how much we appreciate the honor to preach by giving a witness wherever and whenever we can. Like Jesus, our goal is to plant and water seeds of Kingdom truth in the hearts of people. (Matt. 13:3, 23; 1 Cor. 3:6) In line with Jesus’ example, Jehovah’s organization does everything possible to help others come to know God’s name. The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures has played a significant role in this by restoring God’s name to its rightful place. This Bible translation is now available in whole or in part in over 270 languages. w24.04 9 ¶8-9

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Jesus did more than speak about Jehovah. He helped people know Him. By the way he taught, showed patience, and treated others with kindness, people learned Jehovah’s name and what He is like.

 

That same work is happening today. The Daily Text reminds us that Jehovah’s organization is doing everything possible to help others come to know God’s name. Teaching, translating, publishing, and reaching people in many different ways all serve that one goal. The effort is full and ongoing.

 

But then the question turns toward us. We are part of that organization. So we ask ourselves, Are we doing all we can? Not everything imaginable, but everything possible for us. Paul’s counsel fits well here when he urged Timothy to “do your utmost in the ministry.” — 2 Timothy 4:5

 

I was especially moved by an older brother’s expression. He is confined to his home, yet he shared that he and other older ones in the congregation are sending out over 3,500 letters each week and making more than 250 phone calls to unassigned territory. Our older ones are working unassigned territory. What a privilege. He added that he finds the ministry very productive.

 

That experience brings to mind Jesus’ words about the widow who gave what she could. He focused, not on the amount, but on the heart behind it. — Mark 12:43, 44 It also echoes the reminder to work “whole-souled as for Jehovah.” — Colossians 3:23 Age, health, or territory does not limit Jehovah’s ability to bless sincere effort.

 

Jehovah is clearly doing His part. His organization is fully engaged. Seeing faithful brothers and sisters do their utmost gently moves each of us to look at our own circumstances and ask how we can keep making Jehovah’s name known.