Who are you? Have you answered that question before? Typically when we meet someone for the first time we introduce ourselves. We offer our name and then what normally comes next? I would estimate that 80% of the time, the next question is “What do you do?”
We often define ourselves by what we do – “I am a teacher” or “I am a business owner” or “I am a student.” But is that who we really are?
A couple of years ago, I read a book that I still refer back to occasionally. Joshua Choonmin Kang is the author, and the book: Deep-Rooted in Christ – The Way of Transformation. In his book, Kang says this:
God is more concerned with who we are than who we think we are. He doesn’t care how many tasks we do or how big they are. What matters is that we become what God wants us to be. Until that time, God won’t take delight in our activities.
Who we are becoming is more important than who we are – or think we are. As followers in the Way, we are to become who God wants us to be – and the picture of that desire is Jesus. We are to strive to be like him. It takes work. It takes discipline. It takes time – a lifetime in fact.
It begins with a commitment. A decision that only you can make to follow Jesus – his teachings and lifestyle. This requires spending time with him in conversation – daily. It also requires spending time studying his teachings. It requires actually living out the lifestyle you have adopted. We can’t say we follow Jesus if our actions don’t reflect his actions.
Hebrews 12:1-3 says this:
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
When you think you can’t follow through with your commitment of becoming, stop and think of Jesus. Becoming like Jesus is more than a Sunday morning activity. It is a lifestyle. Just remember – who you are becoming is more important than what you do. God is more concerned about who you become and that should be all that matters!
Who are you becoming today?
Clay in the Hands 
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