Identity is the sense of who we are as individuals. It is shaped by our experiences, our beliefs, and our relationships. In the Catholic faith, our identity is rooted in our relationship with God. We are created in the image and likeness of God, and we are called to be his children and to respect the
dignity of all people.
Day 1 – Start with scripture
We start with the Sign of the Cross.
Have a read of this scripture passage. Think about what Jesus is telling us to do.
A Reading from the Holy Gospel According to Matthew
R. Glory to You O Lord“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
The Gospel of the Lord
Matthew 5:14-16
R. Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ
Discussion Questions:
What does it mean to be “the light of the world”? How does Jesus use this imagery to describe his followers and what does it say about our identity?
How can we “let our light shine before others”? What are specific actions or attitudes that demonstrate this?
Share your ideas in the comments box below…
We end with a prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the light you have placed within me. Help me to shine brightly for your glory. May my life be a beacon of hope in a world filled with darkness.
Grant me the courage to speak your truth, the wisdom to guide others, and the compassion to love unconditionally. May my actions be a reflection of your love and grace.
I pray that my light will inspire others to seek you. May my witness lead them to a deeper understanding of your love and forgiveness. Amen
Day 2
We begin this morning thinking about our own identity in Christ as we make the Sign of the Cross together…
Do you ever find yourself believing some of the negative things people might say about you? Or believing lies about your worth and identity. Lauren Daigle’s song “You Say” beautifully explores the contrast between our own self-perception and the truth God reveals about us. These beliefs can be deeply ingrained, shaping our actions and relationships. However, God’s Word offers a different narrative, one filled with unconditional love, grace, and acceptance, just like we heard in the reading earlier this week about us being like a light in the word. Lauren’s lyrics echo this message, reminding us that despite our flaws and shortcomings, God sees us as His beloved children. By embracing His truth and rejecting the lies we tell ourselves, we can begin to experience the freedom and joy that come from truly knowing our identity in Christ.
Just take a moment to think of a time you might have had some mean words said about you, how did you feel? Did it knock your confidence? Let’s listen to the Lauren Daigle song now and as we do so, let’s let go of those negative words and start to believe what God tells us about ourselves.
We end with a prayer…
Lord, when we find ourselves doubting Your words about who we are, getting caught up in the lies we tell ourselves, we pray that we will know the truth you tell us about ourselves.
Help us to see ourselves through Your eyes, as Your beloved child. Remind us of Your promises and Your faithfulness. Amen.
Day 3 -Helping others find worth in their identity
We start with the Sign of the Cross…
Thinking about the Scripture from earlier on in the week, today we will be thinking of ways we can help our friends and family to know their identity is special and important to us.
Take a moment to write a note of affirmation (kind words) to someone about why you appreciate them or what they are good at and give them some encouragement.
When we love and accept others unconditionally, as Christ loves us, we can help them discover the incredible truth of their identity in Him.
Once you have written your note of affirmation, we pray together to Mary, who was a great encourager of others as we say…
Hail, Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou amongst women
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
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