Freedom

by Tim Howard

If you want to gather a large crowd around you, simply shout the word ‘FREE!’  People from every nook and cranny will come running because the very term itself suggests you will get something for nothing. Most people like a good sale but everyone loves to get something for free.

The truth, however, is just the opposite. Everything costs something! Nothing is FREE!  It may be at no expense to you personally but believe me when I say: Someone paid a price!

Today we celebrate our freedom as a nation. The idea of liberty that has kindled the fires of independence in this nation is firmly rooted in the Word of God. 
   
The cost for our nation to experience freedom from tyranny came at a very high price. Every year on Memorial Day we remember the fallen solders who made the ultimate sacrifice so others could experience liberty and independence. As we celebrate today, may we not pass the opportunity to pause and say Thank You!

We must never forget: The call to freedom is a privilege – not a right. It has been provided for us, by others and should be honored by those of us who have been entrusted with it.

We must never forget: We are free to choose but not free from the consequences of our choices. We are responsible for the decisions we make. It is not the right to choose but the privilege to choose what is right.

There is not victory without a fight! It’s one thing to get free and another thing to stay free. Since July 4, 1776 America has fought many wars to insure our continued freedom as country.

The freedom God brings to us goes far beyond a physical freedom, however. He sent Jesus to free us from selfishness, greed, hatred, lust and so much more. You don’t have to walk in depression or darkness because there is a light that leads to liberty. That light shines brightly wherever Jesus is exalted. Nations may leave their roots but to those who stay connected to the foundation will prosper.

Jesus said: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set FREE those who are oppressed.” He died so we could live life to its fullest. He came to set us free!

People everywhere – living in a free nation but still bound and addicted to sin, drugs, alcohol, perversion, materialism, racism and a host of other things. Living in a free nation doesn’t guarantee your personal freedom.  

In John 8, Jesus made an incredibly profound statement.  He said, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.  And if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” We’re not truly free and cannot experience God’s ultimate freedom unless we accept the price that our Great Liberator has paid for our freedom.

Jesus tells us that we are slaves to whatever controls us. He came to liberate those who are bound and He is available to free you right now. Why live in a free nation and remain bound? Why not ask Him to set you free?  Make this weekend a time to celebrate – Not only our nations freedom but yours as well. God came to set you free!