Introducing Judah Watchman Goforth

December 23, 2008

Naming our children is not a matter we take lightly. As I pray and meditate on a name for our babies I look for names that I hope our children will strive to live up to. Our son has been named after much thought and prayer. I would like to introduce you to our son,

Judah Watchman Goforth

Let me share with you the significance of his name. He was named Judah after Judah Maccabee. Being born during Hanukkah is only part of the reason. Judah Maccabee was a zealous and courageous leader of the Jewish revolt against the Greeks who had invaded Israel and desecrated the Temple in Jerusalem. After several years of warfare, control of the Temple was regained and rededicated to YHWH, the God of Israel.

He is named Watchman after Watchman Nee, a faithful Chinese believer who loved YHWH more than his freedom or life. In 1972, Watchman Nee died in prison where he had been held for 20 years for the Gospels sake.

Lastly, I have named him Goforth after Jonathan Goforth (1859-1936). Brother Goforth was a Canadian believer who spent most of his life on the mission field in China. I have been greatly encouraged and challenged by the life of this man. I encourage you to read his life story, "Goforth Of China".

This photo was taken as Judah wept over the lost condition of the world he was born into. He wants to quickly learn to walk so he can get out and preach!