Identity and the Meaning of Life

Identity is important, but knowing who we are is not enough. Within the framework of God's calling, we need to act on our identity in order to make a meaningful moral difference in our lives, as well as the lives of others. When Buzz Lightyear realizes he is a toy, rather than being encouraged and spurred to positive action, he becomes dejected and loses hope. In Toy Story 2, Woody already knows his identity is that of a toy, but for a time he acts in a manner that goes against his purpose and identity. In Ratatouille, Remy has to struggle with his identity and with those who oppose his desire to get along with humans. His confidence and desire to cook overcome his natural identity as a rat; he hopes that despite his identity as a rat, he also can "add something to this world."

Understanding our true identity is foundational to living within God's calling. We can, of course, push back and decide to go our own way rather than God's way. Some do. The unfortunate consequences may not be readily apparent, but such a choice can disfigure the soul and neutralize our ability to make an eternal difference in God's kingdom. How do we avoid this potential pitfall? By continuously seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33). Each of us will get off track at times. The good news is that by God's grace and with Christ's help, we always can get back on track.

Identity relates to the meaning of life. As Christians, our purpose is rooted in God and His nature. Christ is our example to follow. No, we won't be exactly like Him, but we can try to emulate His virtues and strive to become who God would like us to be. In John 8:14, Jesus offered an example of the power of identity in relation to a life filled with purpose: "I know where I came from and where I am going," He said to the hypocritical leaders questioning Him. His purpose and identity were perfectly clear to Him. As a result, His calling fell into place. This was true even though Christ's calling was not all pleasant and had a large share of pain and suffering. When given a firm foundation in Christ, identity helps us grow in relation to virtues such as friendship, courage, love and justice.

With the Christian life comes meaning, purpose and real identity. Knowing who we are as individuals and in Christ will help us along as we face challenges, but we actively must seek to grow in Christ. The world is full of pretense—false concepts of identity that mask reality—which obscures truth. We will face these pretenses internally (our thoughts) and externally by in the way the world around us functions. In such instances, a firm Christian identity is required. Only then can we "take every thought captive to obey Christ" (2 Cor. 10:5).

Discussion Questions

1. How does identity relate to the concept of being made in God's image?

2. Identity relates to calling, purpose, the meaning of life and the formation of virtue. Give some examples of how some of these concepts are related.

3. Knowing our identity in Christ can help us make a positive difference in the world. How and why is this the case?

4. Buzz Lightyear has an identity crisis in Toy Story; in Toy Story 2, Woody has one. What's similar about their struggles with identity? What's different? How are their identity issues resolved?

5. How does knowing our identity and purpose help us grow in virtue and character?

This Youth Culture Lesson is taken from The Wisdom of Pixar: An Animated Look at Virtue by Robert Velarde. Copyright(c) 2010 by Robert Verlarde. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press, P.O. Box 1400 Downers Grove, IL  60515 IVPress.com