Growing up as a young child, I knew right away that I was different from everyone around me. I was a biracial baby given up at birth and later adopted into an all-white family. All of my relatives and all of the church members were Caucasian. However, I was this light-skinned boy with an afro. I often felt that I was not light enough and my hair was not straight enough. I wondered if this was the reason that I was not treated the same as those around me. I remember playing outside and hearing the other kid’s parents say as they call their kids away, “I don’t know if he’s black, but he’s definitely not white.” As a result, I struggled with how to answer those two questions for years. I struggled with my identity of who I was as well as whose I was. These two unanswered questions caused me to live a life of insecurity, having a true lack of identity. I knew that I was different but couldn’t understand why.

In the book of Ephesians, Paul explained to the people of Ephesus how blessed they were. Reminding them that long before the Earth was formed, God had them on His mind. He also told them that they were the focus of His love. This was a message for me as well the message that changed my life. God created me, and He didn’t do it by accident. He spent time creating me into the image that He wanted.  And that meant that I belonged to Him. 

This message applies to you as well. Regardless of your color, who your parents are or even your ability or lack of ability during a game--we belong to Him. We are all His children and He has a deep love and affection for us. Knowing that this is God’s design gives us the ability to let go of any and all insecurities.

We all have very important roles and a purpose in His glorious plan on Earth and in Heaven. We were created by Him and for Him. Amen!