Finding our identify in Christ

Our middle and high school students were blessed with a powerful and uplifting message from Mr. Brett Kime, our Facilities Director. We were also thrilled to welcome our fifth graders to their very first secondary chapel, marking a special milestone in their Eagle journey. Opportunities like these remind us of the importance of intentionally preparing our students for the next chapter.

Mr. Kime described himself as a father, husband, friend, CrossFit coach, and outdoorsman. Despite the title and things we know about ourselves, he pointed out how we still have a hard time grasping who we truly are, especially in a world filled with comparisons and pressures. Young people today often feel the need to define themselves through achievements, relationships, social media, or grades. He asked a thought-provoking question: Who would you be if all those worldly things vanished?

So where should we turn for our identity? Mr. Kime emphasized that true identity begins with the One who created us. Our worth and purpose are found in Christ alone.

“For you formed my inward parts;
    You knitted me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are your works;
    My soul knows it very well.”  

Psalm 139:13-4

Mr. Kime exclaimed: “We gotta look to Jesus!”
 
“For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him.” Colossians 1:16

Before God created everything, He thought of each of us.

“Even as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love, He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will.” Ephesians 1:4-5
 
You are royalty, a child of the Most High God!

“The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him.” Romans 8:16-17

Mr. Kime assured the students that God chose each of them to be here—He wanted them from the very beginning. He encouraged them to remember three powerful identity statements:

  1. I am chosen.
  2. I am loved.
  3. I belong to God.

It’s crucial to hold tightly to these truths—especially in a world that can feel overwhelming and uncertain. Young people today face unique challenges, from social pressures to self-doubt, but holding onto our identity in Christ brings strength and hope. As Jesus said, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Sharing a personal story about a recent challenge when much of his world-defined identity felt stripped away, he said, " The only thing that had eternal meaning was my identity in God.”

Mr. Kime wrapped up the chapel by having each student write a negative label they have placed on themselves. Those cards were collected and redistributed to illustrate that we tend to be harder on ourselves than we are on others. He suggested labels filled with hope and truth:

  • Chosen
  • Loved
  • Designed
  • Adopted
  • God’s masterpiece

The labels we choose to live by shape our lives. When we let the world define us, we feel confined and limited. But when we embrace the identity God gives us—chosen, loved, designed, adopted, His masterpiece—we break free from those chains and can fully pursue His purpose for our lives.

We are grateful to Mr. Kime for sharing such a heartfelt and powerful message, reminding us that our true identity is found in Christ. 

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