The best first gift is the name

Last evening, my thoughts were adorned with the name Zinomurisa L. Kangume, an alumnus from high school whom I haven't crossed paths with in 17 years. His name is a tapestry woven from "Entama zagye Zinomurisa nahabwekyo Kangume," translating to "My possession has a Shepherd, and I shall be still." Selah! What a name brimming with prophecy, confidence, and trust in our Creator.

Reflecting on names, my parents orchestrated a symphony of meaningful appellations for my siblings and me. Arinaitwe, our firstborn, echoes "God is with us." Niwagaba follows, a testament that "God is the one who gives." Ainembabazi, our third sibling, carries the grace of "God is merciful," while my name, Byamukama, translates to "Everything/everyone is from God," emphasizing divine sovereignty.

Ainamaani Taremwa, our fourth sibling, was named prophetically after a perilous childbirth. His name signifies "God is strong and can never fail," a reminder of the miraculous delivery that defied all odds. Our fifth sibling, Nabaasa, entered our lives three months after the sudden demise of his mother. Aptly named "God is able," he stands as a living testament to divine capability.

A heartfelt appreciation extends to our parents for bestowing upon us names rich with prophetic significance. Every name, a gift that echoes God's presence, mercy, strength, and ability in our lives.

In the lineage of meaningful names, our paternal grandmother bestowed upon our father the name Kanoti, meaning "Ka money." In an era when currency notes were introduced, her prophetic naming resonates with Ecclesiastes 10:19 – "And money answereth all things." Each mention of our family name, Kanoti, echoes an invitation for wealth to draw near.

May we recognize the profound impact of names, the first and enduring gifts we give our children – a legacy of meaning, purpose, and divine connection.

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