Identity

“Tara Lee, you are a baptized child of God; whatever else you are, remember that you are that for that is the basis of whatever else you are.”

Through the waters of Baptism, I have been called and claimed as a precious child of God. And as a precious child of God, God has given me gifts; given each of us gifts to share with the world.

It is not easy for us to let others affirm us. In fact at times it can be quite uncomfortable. Yet I believe we are still called to share our stories. A friend affirmed gifts in me by sharing that I am the “light in the midst of the darkness.” I bring a light into dark places. She can name the people and places that I have marked! Wow….what a powerful statement and affirmation!

Hearing that makes me realize even more how my families story of mental illness is linked together. I am many things but most importantly I am a child of God who is also a daughter of someone who lives and daily struggles with mental illness.

By knowing my identity, I know that God will always accompany me through those dark places and will never leave me in the pit. God is a great God who makes things new.

 

Baptismal Identity

“Tara Lee, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” 35 years ago today, those words were spoken to my parents, sponsors and an infant me as I was called and claimed through the waters of Baptism. God chose me and told me who I am; a beloved child of God just like God tells you who you are!

It seems fitting that a new journey began today on the anniversary of my Baptism. Through the waters of Baptism, God makes all things new. And today new is springing up all around me; a new house, a new call, a new city, a new church and so much more. Yet in the midst of the new, I know that God walks with me. I know that God continually reminds me and tells me who I am. And that is a promise worth clinging too.
Not just for me but for all of us.

I am reminded of a plaque I received from my advisor at seminary for graduation. The words remind me that everything flows back to those beloved waters of Baptism.

“Tara Lee, You are a baptized Child of God; whatever else you are, remember that you are that; for that is the basis of whatever else you are.”