Let Faith and Freedom Ring This Holiday Weekend
Throughout human history, people have passionately pursued freedom, and with good
reason. In the words of the one-hit wonder rock group from the 1990s, The BoDeans,
“everybody wants to be free.”
As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s independence tomorrow, it is important to
consider the often-overlooked freedom to practice our faith openly and without fear.
Of course, Jesus is our ultimate liberator. His death on the cross and resurrection from
the tomb brought about the ultimate in freedom — the promise of eternal life in our
Father’s Heavenly Kingdom.
Galatians 5:1 tells us that “Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not
submit again to a yoke of slavery.” We greatly value freedom in our country. Sadly, we
have a shameful history of holding people of color in bondage, and many around the
world are still being held captive against their will. As Disciples of Christ, it is our
responsibility to speak out and stand up against of all forms of injustice, particularly
enslavement.
II Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is,
there is freedom.” Not all bondage is physical. Many struggle with mental, emotional,
and spiritual oppression, but through Him there is the promise of freedom.
The Gospel of John (8:32) states that truth is the key to freedom. In a world beset by
deceit, we must doggedly pursue the truth because in the end, “the truth will set us
free.”
Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July weekend, and we look forward to seeing you in
church on Sunday morning when we once again joyfully celebrate our faith.