Who am I? How I answer this question depends upon the exact situation of the question. If we meet for the first time, I will say, “I am a wife and mother.” But I am more than that. I am a military spouse and a mom to three adults. If we meet at a dog park, I will answer, “I am the owner of Shenny the merle-colored bernedoodle who believes you should be petting her.” If you ask me in the context of what I do, I might answer, “I am a chemistry and physics teacher by trade, an accredited financial counselor by choice, and a speaker and author sharing God’s hope and love with the military.” "Who I am" changes. How do you answer that question?
I have discovered the answer to the question keeps changing as I enter new phases of life. I am changing from the inside out. I am a writer. Actually, I originally wrote “becoming” a writer, but since publishing one book and having another one about to launch, I had to delete “becoming.” I have expanded my horizons as a teacher. As a chemistry and physics teacher, I could explain science topics to high school students. Now as a speaker, I research and study the Bible and then share what I have learned with women.
Fortunately, we serve a God who never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Just as God called Himself “I am who I am” in Exodus 3, Jesus made seven “I am” statements in the book of John.
In John 6, Jesus said, “I am the Bread of Life.” He offers and sustains our spiritual life. In John 8, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Christ is our guide who lights the path for us. Jesus proclaims in John 10, “I am the door of the sheep.” He protects us from the wolves around us. He also states, “I am the good shepherd.” He cares and watches over us. In John 11, He said, “I am the resurrection and the life.” He overcame death and gives us eternal life. “I am the way, the truth and the life,” Jesus states in John 14. He gives us truth and knowledge. In John 15, Jesus declares, “I am the true vine.” When we become Christians, His life flows into us.
Christ is my firm foundation. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life even when the army throws us yet another curve ball. He is the Good Shepherd watching over and caring for my adult children thousands of miles away. When I am drained and out of energy, He is the Light, the Bread of Life, and a source of endless strength. He restores my soul.
As we approach Easter, it is easy to give up spending time in reflection, fasting, and service. Yet, God has called us to do these disciplines daily. Not just when it is easy but every day. Don’t give up; keep learning about God. Keep asking Him, “Who do You say I am?”
Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash
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