We put tremendous thought into choosing names. We debate over names for a new pet, and when the stakes are higher, in naming a child, we research and make lists, at times poll friends and family. Names define us. They have power to shape our trajectory and impact how we view ourselves. Naomi called herself Mara, bitter. Mary, as we’ve seen, comes from the same stem of Mara yet has a beautiful meaning encapsulating God’s whole plan for the world.