Happy Fourth of July!
Today we celebrate 235 years of American Independence. It's a day of patriotism, of American pride, of dazzling fireworks displays and explosions, of deliciously smelling barbeques all over, and everything being red, white, and blue. Today is so important to us Americans because we are celebrating the anniversary of our freedom.
Hm, freedom...
But as I watch people celebrate Independence Day, I can't help but think about a different kind of freedom...
"...where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
-2 Corinthians 3:17
Today I'm reminded of the freedom given to me by God and bought through Christ's blood. This type of freedom is the hardest to understand. But it is true 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
So Jesus, I pray that I won't take this freedom for granted. Rather, I pray that I can use my new-found freedom in a way that You see fit. Place in me a heart for people and countries who don't have that same kind of freedom yet, for the weak, the downtrodden, the dispossessed, and the marginalized. I pray that You're watching over the many countries that are stricken with poverty, war, and genocide today, that You'll keep the spirit of their people strong. I know You're working in a way that we can't understand. Give us trust in You. Conquer entire nations the the way that You have always done: through Love. Give rest to those who are still fighting for their freedom today.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
-Matthew 11:28-30
If you had a choice between a yoke of slavery or a yoke of Christ, which would you pick? As I watch the fireworks tonight, I celebrate not only American Independence, but also freedom in Christ and freedom from slavery. And regardless of the situation, I pray I will always choose freedom in Him. Let that be enough.
