Dependence Day

Today as we gather with family and friends to Celebrate our freedoms on this 4th of July lets take a moment to reflect on this. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. —John 15:5 In the US, the Fourth of July is a national holiday when outdoor grills are heated up; beaches are packed; and cities and towns have parades and fireworks displays, picnics, and patriotic celebrations. All of this is in remembrance of July 4, 1776, when the 13 American colonies declared their independence. Independence appeals to all ages. It means “freedom from the control, influence, support, and aid of others.” So it’s not surprising that teenagers talk about gaining their independence. Many adults have the goal of being “independently wealthy.” And senior citizens want to maintain their independence. Whether anyone is ever truly independent is a discussion for another time and place—but it sounds good. Craving political or personal independence is one thing; daring to pursue spiritual independence is problematic. What we need instead is a recognition and acceptance of our deep spiritual dependence. Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Far from being self-reliant, we are totally and eternally dependent on the One who died to set us free. Every day is our “dependence day.” —Bill Crowder I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord; No tender voice like Thine can peace afford. I need Thee, O I need Thee; every hour I need Thee! O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. —Hawks/Lowry Our greatest strength comes from dependence on our strong God. Bible in a year: Job 28-29; Acts 13:1-25 Insight There are two sides to the word picture of Jesus and His followers as a vine and branches. On the one side, His followers, the branches, are totally dependent on Him, the vine. But as the vine, He freely and generously supplies what we need to bear fruit.