This past weekend, those of us who live in the USA celebrated our nation’s freedom. Each year we commemorate the time when a rag tag team of revolutionaries fought and won against tyranny. It was on July 4, 1776, that representatives from the thirteen colonies gathered to sign the Declaration of Independence. This act, 240 years ago, considered treason by some, solidified the independence of a new sovereign republic. Today, we celebrate our independence with parades, fireworks, and of course, copious amounts of food. We are, after all, Americans!
Since July 4th fell on a Monday, the whole weekend was one big festivity. My home was filled to the brim with family and friends who gathered around for hamburgers, watermelon, and some good ole American apple pie. One night we huddled together to watch fireworks and sang an impromptu, yet terribly off-key version of “God Bless the USA.”
When not stuffing our faces or slathering on sun screen there have been moments that I’ve paused to ponder the word, freedom. Freedom is something we as American’s pride ourselves in, and it is something for which we take a stand. It’s in our national DNA …you know, our staunch belief in the fundamental rights of all to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
As much as we believe in national freedom, I wonder if we truly understand what it means to experience personal freedom? Friends, freedom is not just an American concept; it finds its origination in Jesus Christ who came to set the captives free! The greatest emancipation, in all of history, is when King Jesus defeated sin, Satan, death, and darkness … declaring liberty to all who place their faith in Him.
Notice how often this theme is repeated in the Bible:
If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1
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