Who Are You?

A famous song from the Who echoes the words, " Who are you?"  The line is repeated seven times at the beginning of the song and later throughout the song.  The chorus asks "Who are you? I really want to know. Tell me, who are you? Sounds much like the Levites and priests in today's Gospel. They really wanted to know because this person, John, was drawing crowds and the attention of those in high places. "Why do you baptize?" John was asked. As we know his answer further befuddled those wanting to know his purpose.

Who are you can be applied to us as well. When asked most of us can easily provide answers based upon our family, work, and personal associations. The more challenging question is who are we as followers of Christ? Can one be identified in such a way by their actions and words? I like some, have traveled the long road of life that pertains to this question.

Much of my early life was spent trying to fulfill what I thought other adults wanted me to be. Although somewhat successful, but also very stressful, I encountered a lasting void. As a young adult I aspired to a successful teacher and coach with limited success. In marriage I attempted to become a good husband. Yes, I could be identified as Catholic by attending Mass every Sunday, but my words and actions were not consistent with the faith of my upbringing. The words, "who are you," were distant. Children brought an additional title, that of a father.  Still there was something deeply missing.

"Who are you? I really want to know," the voices in the song echoed.  It wasn't until some years later that one I had to come to grips with the fact that I was truly a sinner and that God accepted me as I was. No matter what facade I put on, who I tried to please, the lasting question would always be there.  That would change slowly through God's grace. Being comfortable in one's skin is a saying that stands out. Matthew Kelly refers to "being the best version of yourself." Humility is key here. Who would want to admit to their faults, to give up running the show? The idea of letting God be in charge is not one that I was comfortable with, but at the same time with a little reflection I saw that I wasn't a competent director of my own life.

All of these statements require acceptance of my own humanity, that I am not perfect (those who live with me can certainly attest to that),  and through prayer, meditation, and reconciliation, I can be truly identified by my Catholic faith.  Who are you? God knows, do you?