The dictionary defines NAME as: “A word or combination of words by which a person, place, or thing, a body or class, or any object of thought is designated, called or known.” Google says (Google knows everything…right?) that the World population is now approximately 7 billion people. Certainly there are some repeats but any way you look at it…that’s a LOT of specific names. And, when you consider their pets…well, that’s more than most of us can count.            

Names are important; they identify us personally and they highlight our associations and connections with others, especially family. My Dad used to remind me and my nine other siblings that we were responsible for maintaining the good reputation of the Holt family name. We understood that our attitudes and actions would have an impact on the reputation that Dad had built in the community. When we sold the farm and moved to the Dallas, Texas, area my Dad started a construction company and did business with the bank in Duncanville, TX just south of Dallas. He built such a good reputation with them that he actually was given a key to the bank! He went to draw out money for the business almost every morning and would arrive before the employees so he could make coffee for them. Sometimes he would bring them donuts.             

Several years later I was stationed at Fort Lewis, WA and I wanted to buy a small truck so I could cut my own firewood (that’s a whole different story!). I needed a loan so I called back to the bank in Duncanville. Mr. Bell, the Bank President, came on the line and asked me if I was one of Bill Holt’s kids. When I confirmed it he said, “Tell my secretary what you need and she will send it to you tomorrow. Fill out the loan papers when you get a chance and send them back.” In a few days the check arrived and I paid cash for the truck…got a better deal too. Of course, I kept my end of the bargain. The reputation of the name BILL HOLT got me the loan; they didn’t even check my credit. In this case, NAME = INTEGRITY.               

The Old Testament book of Proverbs says, in chapter 22, verse 1: “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” Having just read that verse you are probably thinking of people in your life who are reflections of its truth and maybe many others who have obviously missed the mark. We could all mention some well-known people in the news lately who are the antithesis of that verse.             

In OCS I remember the importance put on honesty and integrity. An officer’s word is supposed to be his/her bond. While I met a few officers along the way who violated that maxim I have to say that most were men of integrity. In combat it helped that I could trust those who flew with me; trusting that they knew the mission and would do whatever it took to get us out of whatever we got ourselves into. You don’t soon forget names like that.            

Throughout the Bible you will find many different names used to identify God. Psalm 8:9 sums it up:“Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.” If you ever think of a name that is definitely “better than silver or gold”…that’s the one.  So, how are you doing in the matter of honoring and representing the reputation of the NAME of God? What better time to reflect HIS integrity than at the beginning of a new year? I pray that in the time you have left you will do just that…honor God in all areas of your life and influence others to do the same.

May you be blessed in 2015!

Max Holt, Class 02-67, Association Chaplain