identity

"Who are you?" – Well, I'm Mennonite...
"No - who are you, not what are you."
Oh...I'm not sure...

This morning I realized that I had put my identity in something it shouldn't be in. I became conscious of the fact that I found my self-worth in being a Mennonite, more so, in being the descendent of Mennonite immigrants and the daughter of Mennonite parents. This mentality had shaped my life and I noticeably compared every action to an unspoken Mennonite standard.

Why Don’ts:
-----“Why don’t you cut your hair?” – Because Mennonites have long hair.
-----“Why don’t you wear jewelry?” Because Mennonites don’t wear that stuff.
Why Do’s:
-----“Why do you wear a head covering?” – Because Mennonites wear them.
-----“Why do you have so many relatives?” – Because Mennonites have a lot of children.

The lists could go on but I think I’ve made my point. Don’t misunderstand me. Every “do” and “don’t” has biblical backing – I Cor. 11:14-15, I Peter 3:3-4, I Cor. 11:3-10, and Gen. 1:27-28, respectively, but I should not be basing my life solely on these scriptures. Yes, these passages are worthy to be upheld and honored, but they should not dictate my life.

Only the Lord should be doing that. I’ve been focusing so much on what God commanded me to do that I forgot to focus on who I am in him.

“Who are you?” – I’m a child of God...I am the Lord's workmanship...I am chosen and royal... the list goes on...
"Now're you're talking..."