“1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)

Our nation was founded on this innate longing for freedom but this world still offers many ways to be enslaved both voluntarily and in-voluntarily.  As much as we have fought for liberty in some areas of life, we still find ourselves struggling with others, or still believe we remain captive to.  But this should not be so. Christ did not die on the cross, only to remove the shackles from our wrists, and still leave us chained by our ankles and our neck.  His death & resurrection has released us from our bondage of sin. Yes, we are still sinners, but we are no longer slaves to it.

So what should we do with our new found freedom?

13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:13-14)

So as we commemorate our country’s independence this weekend, let us celebrate first our liberty that comes from the Lord. Let’s not only share in BBQ & fireworks, but also let us participate in these acts of love and service that we have been given freedom for.