"Gargani Cups"

“Gargani Cups”

 

A term that has become part of the McMillan family vocabulary is “Gargani Cup.” It’s named in honor of my late aunt, Vivian Gargani. Aunt Viv had a habit of serving half or two-thirds filled cups of coffee and tea (why we never knew) and one day someone made a comment about a “Gargani Cup” and the designation stuck. So if I make such a reference you’ll know why and won’t think I’m nuts (well, maybe)!

While this illustrated the lighter side of family life which we need it also shows that we’re all known for something. It may not be as far-reaching as the Monroe Doctrine, Marshall Plan, or “I Have a Dream” speech, but in our own circles of influence we can all make an impact through our “Gargani Cups.” People in Scripture had their names associated with various qualities as well. Some were positive (such as Joses who was given a nickname to reflect his encouraging spirit—we know him better as Barnabas, meaning “Son of Encouragement”—see Acts 4:36) while others not so much (Simon the Sorcerer’s activity in Acts 8 gave rise to the term “simony” to describe buying and selling spiritual favors). People are looking at us as well—what are they seeing? Remember Solomon’s words: “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” (Proverbs 22:1).

What’s your “Gargani Cup”? What’s mine? Does it reflect what God wants you and me to be before Him and His world? If not, we must ask Him to shape our lives so they show who we are in Christ and make Him look good.

 

Blessings!

Jim McMillan