We find our identity in our family connections. Read 1 Samuel 9:17-21. Legendary coach Vince Lombardi once gave a speech to his team, setting priorities as “Faith, Family, and the Green Bay Packers.” The Packers went on to win the Super Bowl and became football champions. We find our identity in many places. Identity is crucial for self-awareness, grounding, and building meaningful relationships. All of us begin our journey discovering who we are in our family connections. My identity was shaped by my mom, dad, grandparents, and two sisters. I can trace my family back to Johann Casper Altstadt, who was born in 1673 in Hessen, Holy Roman Empire, in what is modern-day Germany. The prophet, Samuel, approached Saul to anoint him as the first King of Israel. Saul identifies himself as from the Tribe of Benjamin. He reduces his significance by saying that he is from the smallest clan from the smallest tribe, which is like saying, “I’m the least important person of all the Israelites.” Yet, God has called the son of Kish of the tribe of Benjamin to be king. God also determines our identity because God claims that we are his children. We are part of God’s family, and the people of faith are our brothers and sisters. God is the God of grace and calls us to the people of grace. Grace becomes our identity when we follow the example of a grace-filled God.

God of grace and God of glory, on Thy people pour Thy power; crown Thine ancient church's story, bring her bud to glorious flower.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the facing of this hour. Amen (Harry Emerson Fosdick)