Freedom

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Galatians 5:1

 

For the last week towns all over the United States have been shooting off spectacular fireworks displays celebrating the 4th of July, in remembrance of July 4th, 1776 when the United States declared freedom from the oppression of England.  It is a day in the US filled with patriotic music, flags, and of course lots of red, white, and blue.

 

As a believer in Jesus Christ, July 4th provides me with more than just a reminder of fireworks and hot dogs.  On July 4th as flags fly and we celebrate and honor brave men and woman who have paid the ultimate price for you and for our freedom as a nation, I want to encourage you not to forget where freedom originally came from for us.  It did not come from a declaration in 1776, or through hard fought wars, but from a humble man, sent by God who died on a cross for your sins and mine.  Freedom comes because in Jesus’ death and resurrection we were freed from death and eternal separation from God, freed from the bondage of sin.  So as you watch fireworks, go to parades, and eat some hot dogs, don’t forget that true freedom for us started long before July 4th 1776, but on a hill, on a cross when the Son of God died for you and for me.

 

 

Pastor Bill