The word "narrative" has been coming up a lot lately in my reading and conversations with others. Narratives shape what we believe about God, ourselves, and others. Like many Christians, I grew up with a narrative that God was an angry God and He was certainly angry with me. Although that isn't true, it still effects how I see God today. There is a better narrative and that narrative says that I am loved by God and that I am one in whom Christ dwells. If I embrace that truth, that too will shape me. It will make a difference when hardships come. It will make a difference in the choices I make. It will allow me to live my life in confidence that I am loved by God. What good news! Listen to what Scripture says about our identity in Christ.
To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27 ESV
And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, Colossians 2:13 ESV
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 ESV
But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. Romans 8:10 ESV
For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3 ESV
Now, that is some good news! The trick is learning to live into this narrative. I'm trying...I'm trying to grab hold of this truth. I hope you'll do the same.