by Kala Loptien

Fully Dependent

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this Sound Cloud link.

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
John 15: 4-5 English Standard Version

Our daughter started Kindergarten this year. I’m smiling as I type this because before July of 2023, we were still awaiting God’s great plan for growing our family. And then one day, an unexpected phone call made me a mom.

The school she attends selected their theme for the school year: Teach Me to Abide. I love hearing her sweet voice sing their theme song throughout the house: “You’re the way, the truth and the life. You’re the well that never runs dry. I’m the branch and you are the vine. Draw me close and teach me to abide. Be my strength, my song in the night. Be my all, my treasure, my prize. I am yours, forever you’re mine. Draw me close and teach me to abide.”*

As we adjust to our new roles as parents to a six-year-old girl, we recognize just how much these precious little ones depend on their caregivers. It pains and humbles me to know the stories of the adults in her past. But, like you and me, they too were born broken — in dire need of mercy, love and truth. In need of a Savior.

All of us children, no matter our age, need that reminder that God is our perfect, redeeming, loving Father.  We as flawed humans will continue to fall short and fail. God knew that. It’s why He sent his only son to die so that you and I might live. Abiding in Him means our hearts are where they belong. Not only that… He has work for us to do in this world.

Lord, continue to draw us near and teach us to abide always. Amen.

*Song by Aaron Williams and Dwell Songs

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado