Who am I?

This is a question for us all – and one on the minds of many right now.

We enter this world, a mewling infant, at the centre of our own universe, connected to our mother. As children we learn to play, share and “be nice” to others. As we explore outwards, our will is shaped through discipline. We learn our teenage desires and preferences are not those of others. As adults we must master choice and skills of conflict and collaboration to negotiate our own interests.

Along this journey from dependence to independence and inter-dependence, that question, “Who am I?” remains. If my family defines me – a father, son or brother – then what if I do not have these? If it is work or office, I am stripped of meaning when they must end. If it is who I know, then my sense of self is at the whim of others. If it is health, how do I respond to illness or disability? If it is possessions then I am vulnerable to theft, moth, rust and decay!

Science and society teach us that we each have our identity is innate. At our birth we are imprinted with a unique combination of time, place and parentage. A unique blend of genetics carried in every cell of our bodies and a series of social markers that are forever ours – our parents, our birthrights and more.

The Psalmist reflected that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made”. Made in the image of God, we bear the Maker’s mark and are loved by Him. This identity is unchanging and true - whatever the weather, our work or wealth.

Or if we carry a card.

Am I who you say I am?