FREEDOM

Waking up each morning in a nation that gets to celebrate freedom is something most of us take for granted in the United States.  We move throughout our days giving little thought to what took place to make this gift available to us.  As Christians, we can fall into the same pattern of thinking when it comes to regularly recognizing what Christ did for us so that we can walk in Spiritual Freedom. 

INTENDED FOR EVERYONE

During this holiday weekend, let’s look at what it takes to bring freedom to a nation, a group of followers, or an individual.  On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted to begin the process of a young nation’s freedom. While we celebrate on July 4th, preparations for this monumental event took time.  A small group of men, known as the Continental Congress, gathered for years, planning, and many praying to make this day of freedom a reality.  Each person who collected and participated in this daring move put their lives at risk.  Preparing to defy the king and England would come with a price of life and death.  This new, controversial document was intended for everyone.  The original writing included a passage condemning slavery. It was later removed to encourage the southern states to join in.  While an imperfect document, it was an intentional move toward greater freedom for those living in the new land.   Some of these freedoms took far too long for many to achieve, but the first steps toward a free nation were taken. 

NO ONE CAN REMOVE THE TRUTH

I can’t read the Declaration of Independence without thinking about my Spiritual Freedom in Christ, my Lord.  I can’t help but find parallels that make freedom a reality in both.  As the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776, I was adopted into Christ’s freedom and family in 1987. Preparations for my Spiritual Freedom took time.  In the weeks, months, and years leading up to my salvation, Jesus orchestrated people to pray for me and, in His perfect timing, share the Gospel. My Spiritual Freedom required the life and death of The Son of God.  It required sacrifice. Just like the original writing of the Declaration of Independence, Spiritual Freedom is intended for everyone.  While the weakness of men led to an essential part of the declaration being removed from this document, no one can remove the Truth that the perfect gift of Christ’s Freedom is always available to everyone who believes and sees their new identity in Christ. 

If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.
John 8:36

Happy Independence Day 2025.