A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege of meeting someone from another country who, in his native land, does not have the most basic religious freedom. I wish I could share more of the story, because it is almost impossible for someone from the west to believe. As a believer in the United States, I am aware that religious oppression exists, but this awareness is more of an intellectual acknowledgment rather than a real understanding. In speaking with this person, I had a brief glimpse into the real sacrifices that people make each day to follow Christ. This willingness to lay everything down... home, work, family, even life itself... is something that most of us will never know. Yet, with this sacrifice and the normal human emotions of fear and loss, I sensed a great joy and resolve, a freedom in Christ.
Believers everywhere are called into freedom, a new life given to us. So, why do I too often live in this freedom as if I am burdened? Why do we treat our walk as an obligation rather than as a celebration?
This Independence Day, we should celebrate the freedoms that this day causes us to remember. As Americans, our freedom has been bought with the blood of men and women who have given all. I am thankful for my grandparents who, throughout my life, shared glimpses of the commitment of the greatest generation and their service to God, country, and family.
As Christians, our freedom has been bought with the blood of Christ. I am thankful for my recent conversation that showed me this truth in a new light.
"My chains are gone, I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, Amazing grace"
