Our identity is in God
Three key biblical passages, coming from vastly different contexts, invite us to understand our identity in light of our relationship to a loving, self-sacrificing God. The first recounts God’s promise to Abram, highlighting the enduring nature of divine covenants. The second focuses on Jesus’ unwavering commitment to his divine mission in the face of mortal danger, showcasing his self-sacrificing nature. Jesus’ poignant lament over Jerusalem is explored, where he likens himself to a mother hen yearning to protect her chicks, a powerful image of divine love and vulnerability. Paul emphasizes Christ’s sacrificial love as an example for how we are to live our lives.
Our inner yearning
Given that our identity is in God we should not be surprised by our soul’s yearning for union with God, and the need for self-sacrifice to achieve union with God. St. John of the Cross’s writings, like The Dark Night of the Soul, explore the arduous journey of purification necessary for spiritual union, a journey that mirrors Jesus’ own path of self-sacrifice. Just as John of the Cross spoke of the soul’s longing for God, today’s scriptures highlights God’s longing to gather and protect his people.
A Call to Action: Commit to personal growth.
Spend time with the gospels to study Jesus’ example. Read other books in the New Testament and stories of how Saints down through the ages have followed Jesus’ example. Reflect on your own commitment to God’s will and seek God’s strength to live a life of self-sacrificing love.
Join Us
Self-sacrificing love isn’t easy. Experience the warmth and community of faith at St. Barnabas as together we try to follow this challenging but ultimately life giving way. We invite you to join us in worship and fellowship as we journey together in our understanding of God’s love and sacrifice.
Watch the full sermon to learn more about how our identity ultimately rests in God and how we can embrace our identity through self-sacrificing love.