Identity

Identity - defined as "the set of behavioral or personal characteristics by which an individual is recognized"  the condition of being one's self and not another" or "Oneness!"

Often we think identity is based on traits that have been shaped by family and society but in fact, true identity is being the original you.  

A solid oak fireplace mantle that was created by a master craftsman is a beautiful work of art.  The trends of society redefine it over the years.  After thirty years and several layers of paint, it takes on a whole new "identity" yet the truth is that under all the layers of paint and years of use and abuse there lies a beautiful work of art.   The core identity never changed. 

The "I" in identity is the key.    You can take a pig, dress it in a king's robe and call it a prince but at the very core of this new identity is "I am a pig." 

You can take a person that was designed and created by the Master and after years of living, he has been redefined by life, sin, relationships, and circumstances.  Yet at the core is the original master piece that needs to be placed back into the Master's hands so that He can start the restoration process of returning that person to their true identity.   At the core is, "I am a person created by God and loved by God. "  God demonstrated the truth of that when He sent His son Jesus to die for mankind so that we could be redeemed (rescued, reclaimed).   

God immediately begins the restoration process.   His ultimate goal is to restore us to Himself; spirit, soul, and body.    

Restore - "to bring back to a previous normal condition,"  "to put someone in possession of a prior position or office."     The word restore implies renovation, repair, and making good any dilapidation, returning to a former state of wholeness. 

Art by Janice Seney