Independence day. Freedom. As Americans, together we celebrate and value our declared independence from Britain, which was courageously fought for and won centuries ago in 1776. Since then America has fought a Civil War, two World Wars, Vietnam War, Korean Conflict, Gulf Wars, and several other wars (totaling at least 12 major wars). We have experienced a devastating loss of American lives defending our freedom.
As a kid growing up, we were often reminded of these wars and the price paid by men and women throughout our country’s history. We listened to stories from neighbors, friends, and relatives about the cost of gaining freedom and the commitment to keeping that freedom. To celebrate, we proudly flew American flags, draped red-white-and-blue buntings and streamers over our porches and decks, and even taped small American flags to the handlebar grips of our bikes as we looked for a neighborhood parade to join. Of course, there were the traditional BBQs and picnics with hot dogs, hamburgers, buckets of chicken, homemade potato salad, and cut-up watermelon slices to go around. All tremendous memories. I am sure you have a few traditions and memories too.
Christian Americans have another freedom to consider and be thankful for, which is guarded by our American freedom but paid for by only One: Freedom in Christ. John chapter eight talks about this freedom directly. As Jesus speaks to the crowd He gives a glimpse of what a disciple of Christ should be doing: “
If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples
”
We should be abiding in His word. Jesus then says some of the most powerful words ever spoken about being free: by abiding in Him and His word “
you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free
.”
God’s Word is spoken by the Son and is not just true, but it is Truth.
Americans have always faced threats boldly as a nation. As Christians, we realize that we are sinful by nature and in bondage to the threat of sin. It is only the blood of Christ shed on the cross that sets us free; no efforts of our own were involved in this war. Sometimes we only do what we’ve been taught, like the crowd Jesus was addressing: the sons and daughters of Abraham. In this Scripture, a powerful narrative gives us a glimpse of how the Truth sets us free: Jesus sets us free. If we practice sin we are a slave, but Truth, God’s saving grace in Christ, gives us a different view: the view of true Freedom.
Saints, as we celebrate our nation’s freedom this 4th of July, let’s remember our greater freedom: Freedom in Christ! And as we let freedom ring, let’s share the Gospel message so the seeds of God’s Truth can be planted in the minds and hearts of our friends, neighbors, and family with the help of the Spirit. Amen
We pray.
Lord, thank You for Your Word and for the promise of freedom You give us from sin, death, and the devil found in Christ. Thank You for all of the brave souls who have served to protect this and all of our freedoms. Protect and heal our nation and world from strife, injustice disease, and virus. Bless those in need, those who are ill and suffering, and those who have experienced loss and are alone. Send hope to the hopeless. We pray this in the saving name of Jesus. Amen.
Jeffrey S. Beavers, CEO
Crean Lutheran High School
Proclaiming Jesus Christ through Excellence in Education
