Freedom

Bar-b-ques, fireworks, and bug spray mark the celebration of independence today. Our modern celebrations do not do justice to the sacrifice so many have paid in order to provide for the freedoms that often we take for granted. I believe that is right and proper to celebrate the freedoms that we have in this blessed country. I salute the men and women who have served this country, protected it’s borders and citizens, even fought it’s wars.

Trendy coffee tables, jammin’ modern music, quick espresso sermons mark the celebration of independence today in many circles. Perhaps the traditions of churchianity have led to the taking for granted the freedom from the shackles and snares of sin. “Freedom isn’t free,” it’s been said - and how true that is. The power over sin and death came at a great price. The price tag was the life of a perfect sacrifice. In the wake of that sacrifice many have laid down their natural lives because the embers of freedom could not be silenced by threats and bullying. So many have sacrificed so much in order to “name the name of Christ.”

As a peer into my life I see such mercy and power. I am so thankful that when Jesus sets you free that you are free indeed (John 8:36). Independence not from a tyrannical king over taxing us in the natural – but freedom from the prince and power of the air who was ever so about his business of stealing, killing, and destroying.

As I celebrate the freedom of religion, of bearing arms, and the wonderful liberties of the Constitution; I also celebrate the freedom to become what He has called me to be. I once was free to sin - now I am free from sin. I like it better this way! Liberty from sin is not the ability to “be what I want to be”, but the opportunity to “be what He has called me to be.”

Celebrate. Celebrate! Celebrate your freedom – by surrendering your will to Him. Come on… come after Him. He said, “If any man come after me he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

Author: Jay Jones

Jay is an author, veteran church planter, speaker, and the pastor of the Pentecostals of Kentwood. He's a passionate worshipper of Jesus Christ, a husband, daddy, pastor, and a ‘pretty good guy’. Jay is also an ordained minister of the United Pentecostal Church, where he currently serves as a Presbyter in West Michigan.

Share This Post On

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.