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Tuesday, November 30

2 Samuel 7:18-29

Who Am I?

I must confess that I have uttered the sentiment of David, “Who am I, sovereign Lord, and who is my family, that you have brought me thus far?” It is as if David knows the prayers of my own heart in seeking identity, direction and place in the world. Maybe you have uttered these words, longing to know who you are.  

A friend was reflecting on the interesting dynamics of living in a place with a pace of life free from the busyness of other communities they had lived. In their current context they have the space to think, to ponder and to wonder. Their observation summed up the deep wrestling of identity many have, stating “in this community you have to be okay with who you are.” Some shy away from this question of who they are, preferring to cover it up with doing something. David determines to use the time to pray about it and lift his concern up to God.  

In the space to think, to ponder and to wonder, David has a conversation with God. It almost feels like a private conversation that you are not quite sure you should hear. It is an honest conversation where David speaks what is truly on his heart, his longing for identity and belonging. He prays that his efforts are not in vain but will persist. It is a conversation because as David speaks, he hears God’s response. David hears God’s promises and learns his identity. David becomes okay with who he is.  

The season of Advent gives us time and space to slow down and wonder at the question of, “who am I.” It is a gift to pause and remember what God has done for you in the past and to listen to how God will use you in the future. It is in this time of quiet reflection and listening that we become more comfortable with who we are as children of God.   

All-knowing God, you love us as we are and give us an identity in You. Give us courage to live as we are called. In Jesus, Amen.

Rev. Dustin Lenz – Christ Lutheran Church, Fairbanks

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