By Doug Redford
In our celebrations of Independence Day, the words that begin our Declaration of Independence will often be read or heard: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
One of the most important phrases in this opening sentence is found in the words “inalienable rights.” Inalienable is a word that we likely do not hear or use, other than when we are referring to the Declaration of Independence. It is defined as something “unable to be taken away from or given away by the possessor.” The framers of the Declaration saw rights as something derived from God, not government. They then proceeded to list a series of “grievances” against the king of England, declaring him “unfit to be the ruler of a free people.”
As we prepare for the observance of Communion, let’s tweak the first four words of the Declaration and reflect upon “Truths That Hold Us.” Consider that the “rights” that our Savior possessed were inalienable only in that they could not be taken from him. He was, as Paul stated, “in very nature God” (Philippians 2:6, New International Version). “Through him all things were made” (John 1:3). Jesus could and did, however, give away his rights. As Paul went on to write in Philippians 2, Jesus “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant. . . he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (vv. 6-8). As his crucifixion drew near, Jesus made it clear that no one was taking his life; he was giving it “of [his] own accord” (John 10:18). When Jesus instituted Communion with his disciples, he broke the bread and spoke of “my body given for you” (Luke 22:19).
Consider this time of Communion our “Declaration of Dependence” upon our Savior. As we hold the emblems, let us reaffirm these “truths that hold us.” And instead of listing grievances against our King, let us humbly acknowledge his grace that has “rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves” (Colossians 1:13).
Doug Redford has served in the preaching ministry, as an editor of adult Sunday school curriculum, and as a Bible college professor. Now retired, he continues to write and speak as opportunities arise.
Contact us at cs@christianstandardmedia.com
Very well spoken. Great thoughts for the Lords Supper.