** Pastor Maureen will be away from July 25th through the 31st. Should you need pastoral assistance, Steve Ingerson will be covering for her.
From the desk of Pastor Maureen Berson
Warmest July Greetings, Dear Family and Friends!
This week our nation will celebrate the 4th of July, the day that the thirteen colonies signed the Declaration of Independence, officially declaring themselves free from the rule of Great Britain and forming the United States of America. On July 4th, many Americans proudly display the American flag and wear red, white and blue clothing. Children may have their faces painted with stars and stripes. Many towns and villages host festivals; parades with marching bands, fife and drum corps; BBQ’s; concerts; often ending the festivities with fireworks. A joyous time of celebration with gratitude for God’s grace and blessings upon our country and in our lives!
Reflecting on this important day in American history reminded me of an insightful piece written by Bill Crowder, entitled ‘Dependence Day’:
“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.”” 1 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.
I thank God for his faithful provision of our needs, as Christ-followers. We are the Body of Christ, called to serve the Lord in worship and in service to others. Friends, we serve a faithful God who loves us beyond measure. Jesus said, I will never leave you, never forsake you. He is always with us, sustaining us in our daily ‘assignments’; strengthening us in our challenges; encouraging us as we follow in his footsteps. Those who have gone before us are cheering us on from the grandstands of Heaven Dear Jesus,
Sometimes life is difficult. Help us to keep our eyes on you and run the race that is before us, not comparing ourselves to others but focusing on you, and who you created us to be. Let hope flood our minds and grace give us strength.
Thank you, Jesus. Amen
Pastor Maureen