He chose us in him before the foundation of the world. – Ephesians 1:4

Who do you look like… a parent, an uncle, a person you’ve only seen in a book of photographs? Most people desire to know their heritage, so much that entire television programs are designed to observe someone discover their ancestral history for the first time. But as with all stories, it is best to start in the beginning.

The Bible says before you were someone’s child, you were God’s idea: every nuance, the parts you like, and the parts you hide. However, as you look for family resemblance with your Creator, you may be dismayed to discover, He is perfect and good, holy and powerful, and you obviously are not! That is where God went the extra mile to outline the family tree for you. 

Spiritual family resemblance will not be found in photos; it will be reflected in your heart. “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith” (Galatians 3:26). Through faith in Christ, you can see your Father clearly. “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). And it is alright to double-check your place in the family. “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13). 

Give thanks today for God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ and your place in that story. Pray for America’s public servants to also find their identity in God’s plan. Ask that they will seek Him daily as they fulfill their roles and govern the country.