It’s a question that haunts everyone at some point.
I just filled a box with goodies to mail to a college student, the daughter of some missionaries we know. These kids are often called ‘third culture’ kids. Many were born in the US to American parents. They have one foot in American culture, but they live in another country, so they have a foot in that culture as well. Honestly, they don’t feel completely at home in either place. Hence, ‘third culture’ kids.
Clearly, this is an extreme example, but we all feel it from time to time.
You’ve wrestled with the questions…
- Who am I?
- Why am I here?
- What’s my purpose?
These questions resonate. C. S. Lewis famously said…
“If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in the world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”
I believe this is true and I love Jesus’ response to Pilate’s interrogation, “My kingdom is not of this world.” John 18:36a. We were made for another world, but we currently live in this one. We’re all, to some degree, ‘third culture’ kids, trying to live well here, now. I’m bringing this up, because the overall theme of the movie Overcomer is identity. A young girl, a middle-aged man, and an older man… each wrestling with identity and purpose. Their stories are intertwined, and each helps the other find purpose on the journey.
Ephesians 1 and 2 are the biblical foundation of the message. I had a conversation with Stephen Kendrick as they were working on the film. He encouraged me to read Ephesians 1-2 and make a list of everything I am and everything I have because of Christ. I followed his advice. It was a powerful time in the Word.
So, let me encourage you to do two things…
1. Read Ephesians 1-2 this weekend for yourself or with someone. Do the work, really. List who you are and what you have because of Christ.
2. GO SEE OVERCOMER! (Click here to find a theater near you!) Take your family. Take a friend. Take a neighbor. Then go out for a cup of coffee or some ice cream. Have an Identity conversation together. Discuss the riches we have in Christ Jesus!