As Christians, we're raised with Christ (Colossians 3:1), and we have a new life that is rooted in this new identity. This truth makes me think of Captain Marvel.

A few weeks back, I took my girls to see this latest Marvel Studios film. Well... it's the latest until this Friday when Endgame comes out. There are some minor spoilers ahead for those of you who are catching up. Just skip this if you haven’t seen the movie.

Like most fans, I loved the opening tribute to Stan Lee and the Flerken cat, Goose. But the most beautiful thing about the movie to me is the fact that the lead character, played by actress Brie Larson, is called "Aunt Carol" about a hundred times in the movie before she's ever identified by her superhero name. In fact, Carol Danvers is not identified as Captain Marvel at all until the end credits.

In a world that over-values public persona, Captain Marvel stands as a reminder that your family identity, the person you are to the people closest to you, matters so much more than your platform or public image.

She should also remind us as Christians that the identity God gives us in Christ is the grounds for what we do for him. Who we are in Christ is fundamental. It stands as the foundation for our Christian activity. Take some time today to remember who Christ has made you to be... a disciple (Matthew 28:18-20), a member of his family (John 1:12-13), a servant (John 13). Then, choose to live your life in accordance with your identity. Live up to what you've already attained. Live a life that's worthy to the great calling you've received (Philippians 3:16; Ephesians 4:1)

By the way, my friends Garrick Bailey and Timothy Paul Jones have a podcast called Three Chords and the Truth.They wrestle over apologetic questions about the truth of Christianity and then take a theological look at a classic hit from the history of rock and role. In a recent episode, they spend some time discussing God, humanity, and gender in Captain Marvel. Give it a listen. I think you'll enjoy it.