This document discusses the idea that true identity and personhood come from God, not from our own accomplishments. It notes that we often see God's love as conditional based on our performance, trying to earn God's approval, rather than believing that God loves and accepts us unconditionally. The document encourages letting go of this misconception and instead knowing ourselves through knowing God.

3. Although we speak of certain people as
being self-made, no one is truly their
own creation. Personhood is not an
accomplishment; it is a gift… our true
self – the self we are becoming in God
– is something we receive from God.
Any other identity is of our own
making
and is an illusion.
David Benner

5. lost
sought for
found
rejoicing!

7. We too often feel that God’s love for us is
conditional like our love is for others. We
have made God in our own image rather than
seeing ourselves in God’s image. We have
belittled God’s love and turned our lives into
an endless attempt to prove our worth. Ours
is a culture of achievement, and we carry
over these attitudes to our relationship with
God.

8. We work ourselves to a frazzle trying to
impress everyone including God. We try
to earn God’s approval and acceptance.
We cannot believe that our relationship
with God, our standing before God, has
got nothing to do with our performance.
- Desmond Tutu

10. “The time has come,” he said.
“The kingdom of God has come near.
Repent and believe the good news!”
Mark 1:15

12. In your presence we become aware
of how little we know of ourselves,
of our interests and passions, of our fears and
dreads, of our wonderments and gifts.
In your truthfulness, let us know more of you
and in knowing you, ourselves as well.
We pray in the name of Jesus, where we can
see you fully, and ourselves clearly.
Amen.
Walter Bruegemann