Freedom
In today’s article I am going to focus on the idea of freedom since we just celebrated the 4 th of July. Have we really thought about why the holiday is so widely celebrated, or what the meaning is behind all the festivities? The purpose is to recognize the signing of the Declaration of Independence which allowed the United States to become its own country and freed the nation from being under the authority of Great Britain. The idea allows men and women to live a life that provides the freedom of choice. The word freedom according to Google means: “the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.” Wow, what a blessing it is to have the freedom to live in this manner. The 4 th of July is also a reminder that the people of the United States can act on these freedoms. But what does this look like? For some, the choices may include; the freedom to purchase and own their own property, the freedom to wear what they want, the freedom to have a fair trial, the freedom for all people to be treated equal and of course, let’s not forget the freedom of religion. All of these freedoms allow the great people of the U.S. to have the option to choose how they want to live their lives. Similarly, there is another choice that can offer freedom-a relationship with the Heavenly Father. By building this connection, and making the choice to follow, the privilege provides various blessings and gives people the opportunity to take up a special kind of citizenship. However, this citizenship is not where we currently live or even where we were born. Instead, the citizenship I’m referring to allows faithful followers to live in Heaven eternally with Jesus himself. Therefore, when evaluating your life, what choices will you make to secure your place in heaven?
But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.
Phil. 3:20-21
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions
1. What types of obstacles keep you in captivity?
2. How will you refrain from these obstacles so you can move forward?
3. Will you allow him to lead you down a path of spiritual freedom?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) when you think about freedom does it lead you to choose to be an “Citizen of Heaven”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwirdlbkUD8&ab_channel=taurenwellsVEVO