“It’s July 4, the day when we celebrate our national Independence, the founding of our Republic,” says Will Willimon, professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry at Duke Divinity School, acclaimed pastor, and author of over sixty books. Willimon continues, “But I want to propose this Sunday that we do something a little bit different…I propose that we reflect upon the founding of the Christian church.” Today’s text from Mark 6:1-13 is “the rationale for why we are gathered here this Sunday…Those first disciples are the precursors for all of us.” That is a good reason to celebrate!