Unplugged

I had a realization tonight while unplugging my Christmas lights that decorate my suite. The lights will go out if I unplug the cord. Similarly, if one of these light bulbs broke off from the cord, it wouldn't shine its light.

This instantly reminded me of John 15, where Jesus is the vine and we are the branches. Only if we remain in him can we bear fruit. If a branch breaks off the vine, it is removing itself from its source of life.

I have this tendency to try to further the Kingdom of God on my own without God. Silly, right? All I am doing is trying to be that light bulb that glows wherever it is placed, but if I am not plugged in to the source of power, how can I shine?