Freedom

On July 4, 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain and democracy was born.  Every day people leave their homeland to come to the “land of the free and the home of the brave” so they can begin their American Dream.  On this holiday each year, those who are Americans celebrate freedom and independence with barbecues, picnics, services, fly-overs, and family gatherings.

In our country we enjoy both national freedom and individual freedom.  But there is another freedom that we do not think much about on the 4^th of July and that is spiritual freedom.  In the New International Version of the Bible, there are 24 references to the word “freedom”.  It is interesting that God sent Jesus Christ into the world to provide spiritual freedom for us. The Apostle Paul reminded his hearers of spiritual freedom available in Christ when he said, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (II Corinthians 3:17). It was Jesus who also said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor” (Luke 4:19-20). Jesus further reminded people that freedom comes through truth when He said, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

When the disciples asked Jesus about the way to heaven, He replied, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).  Spiritual freedom comes from Jesus and it is found in Him.  As we approach our country’s day of reflection let’s rejoice in the national and individual freedom we have.  However, I would also encourage you to think about the spiritual freedom that is available for you and me.  Have you received the freedom that Christ came to give?  Turn in faith to Christ today.  He will set you free and you will find yourself enjoying spiritual freedom. The Apostle Paul summed up this freedom when he said, “Because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:2).