Called by Name

Have you ever felt like your name no longer fits—as if it’s tied to shame, fear, or failure? Mary Magdalene in The Chosen knew that feeling all too well. In her town, she was known mostly for her demonic possession. But Jesus pierced through that and called her by her true name. Not a name tied to being unclean, unworthy, or broken. Just: “Mary.” That one word, spoken with love, changed her story and gave her a new beginning.

In The Chosen, this encounter is simple and powerful. Jesus gently calls Mary Magdalene by name, and her eyes widen. Something awakens. She recognizes His voice because it cuts through her darkness and speaks to her soul. In the Bible, Isaiah 43 echoes this: “I have called you by name; you are mine.” God’s call doesn’t begin with demands—it begins with belonging.

A very similar moment happens after the resurrection. Mary Magdalene stands at the tomb, weeping. She doesn’t recognize Jesus, until… He speaks her name. And once more, everything makes sense. The same voice that set her free now calls her into a new purpose. Her healing becomes her calling. Her name becomes her sending.

Mary Magdalene reminds us that being called isn’t about being qualified—it’s about being available. And knowing: even in your darkest hour, your name is not forgotten. Maybe you too have felt too far gone to be called by God. Or maybe you’ve stopped listening altogether. But Jesus hasn’t stopped calling. He knows your name and calls you into his mission.

Today, please pause and listen. What if Jesus is calling your name today—quietly, gently, lovingly? Not to remind you of your painful past, but to restore you to a new joyful future. He doesn’t just see what’s been (even though He wants to comfort you in that too). He sees what’s possible. One word—your name—can be the start of something new. Are you ready to hear it? Are you willing to respond?

What would it mean for you to hear Jesus speak your name today?

P.S. Are you enjoying this journey with Mary Magdalene? Your own character might even resemble hers. Care to find out? Take our The Chosen 'Test of Character' and journey for a while with the character you have the most in common with.