Who am I?
I remember the moment I found out I was pregnant. As I looked in shock and excitement at the little word printed on the digital pregnancy test, I applied a word to myself I have always longed for but never before had the honor of wearing: Mom. When my daughter was born eight months later (she came early), that identity took root in a way I have not felt before or since. I was no longer merely Elizabeth; I was Sarah Grace’s mother. What a holy and sacrificial calling, to be a mom. There are plenty of noble callings, but there is something innately special about being a parent, despite the lack of sleep and long days. It is in the sacrifice that I have found the reward.
Today, though, while walking Sarah Grace around the neighborhood in her stroller, it occurred to me: What if this identity were to be removed? It sounds morbid, because it is. But it is also true. Motherhood is conditional on having a child to nurture and love. What would I be without my daughter? The thought didn’t sit well with me for a number of reasons, but I want to focus today on the identity aspect of it. If I’m not a mom, then who am I?
I have been listening to a sermon series by John Mark Comer titled Identity. He examines the parts of us that make us human, as well as what it means to recognize and pursue our God-given calling in life. I certainly feel like I am fulfilling mine through motherhood. But the sermon goes a step further. What if your identity is built off something conditional, like having a child, or a job, or getting a promotion? What if who you are is based on how others see you, the house and car you own, your style and the outfits you wear? What then?
It is crucial, especially in a world that pushes for us to find our identity in our calling, to root our identity in Christ. He is the cornerstone on which life was meant to be built (Matthew 21:42). Who am I without Christ? I am afloat without him, shifting from identity to identity depending on where the wind blows, with no roots to hold me steady. A tree without roots will not withstand the wind, and this is true of us. We must be rooted in the Lord, or we will find ourselves toppling over in despair if what we cherish most is taken from us.
My prayer for you, then, and for myself, is that we may plant our lives in Christ, trusting that he will lead us through all life may bring our way. Be at peace, sister, for the Lord is here for YOU, and he’s not going anywhere.
A Prayer to be Rooted in Christ
Lord Jesus, I pray that you grow our roots in you deep. That in the face of opposition or difficult circumstances, we know it is you we can turn to and rely on. It is easy to put our hopes upon idols, but you call us towards a better life-one with you at the center. Guide us home into your loving arms where we may rest in the knowledge that you will never forget nor forsake us. Amen
Resources:
Discovering Your Identity Part 1: The Journey
https://practicingthewayarchives.org/identity/week-one
