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.”
Our greatest strength comes from dependence on our strong God. (RBC)
