“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” – Ephesians 2:10 NLT

I’ve been asked several times at different points in my life this one question that had always vexed me. “Describe yourself in one word. What would it be?”

As always, when asked, I struggled to find the answer. The problem is, my identity was always changing. Before, I was a hearing person; now I am a deaf person. Previously, I was a Kumdo student. Now I am learning basic Krav Maga.

How do I define and describe myself? Which parts of myself do I see as a more defining area of my life? My career? I am currently pursuing a teaching degree. My family relationships? I am a daughter and a sister. My disability? I am deaf. My ability? I can speak clearly. Who am I really?

Paul confidentially declares in Ephesians 1:1 and other letters: “I am an apostle of Christ Jesus.” His identity was Christ and Christ alone.

What does this even mean? I have been pondering over that question more frequently as the years pass by. I thought of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). I mulled over His perfect obedience to Father’s will. Then I realized this.

Christ is the cornerstone of our Christian faith. He came to serve, not to be served. He knew what his foreordained purpose was: to give His life as a ransom for all (Matthew 20:28). Christ is our Redeemer! (Galatians 3:13-14; Ephesians 1:7, etc.).

And so now when I reflect on that question, today, I can confidentially say without hesitation in one word:

“Redeemed.”