Today we celebrate freedom. We think about freedom. It possibly enters our discussions as we feast on 4th of July cookouts. It is something we can easily take for granted because we have been free for a long time. If we are born in this country, we likely do not truly appreciate our freedom because we know no different. If you immigrated to this country, you probably have a much more refined, appreciative view. It brings gratitude.
Being free means that I can own the land that I am currently sitting upon. I am free to earn a living of my choice. I am free to make decisions. For some, it means freedom to do whatever they want. But I think freedom is so more than that. I don’t see it as a selfish gift. I see it as an gift of unlimited possibilities to serve. I think of our freedom to love others in a way that reaches out to those in need. I think of our freedom to take care of those that may not be able to take care of themselves. My freedom to worship God in a public, open space is a priceless gift. One of those ways of worship is feeding and providing for others. I am free to be kind to others. I am free to be all that God has created and gifted me to be.
What will we do today with our freedom? Will we reach out and love? Will we share the gifts we have been given? Will we welcome and care for others? Will we share unexplainable kindness simply because we can? Will we worship, praise and give thanks? Or will we take for granted what it means to really be free?
Focus Scripture:
Galatians 5:13
For you were called to be free, brothers and sisters; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love.
Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery. Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery
SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 