Freedom

It’s the 4th of July, Independence Day here in the USA. I’m sitting here remembering celebrations from years past, especially those as a kid when we could not wait until it was dark enough to set off our fireworks. Sparklers were always a hit, along with devices that made whistling noises, as well as those weird little magic “snakes” that created a slithering trail of ash on the street in front of our house. The big highlight was the annual trek to the high school football stadium for the big fireworks show. This was small town America at its best, celebrating with friends and family the independence of America and reminders of those who made sacrifices for the freedom we enjoy.

I confess that I cry every time I hear the Armed Forces Medley on this holiday with its tribute of Semper Paratus honoring the Coast Guard, The U.S. Air Force for airmen, Anchors Aweigh in tribute to the navy, the Marine’s Hymn for our maritime land force, and The Army Goes Rolling Along for our soldiers. Like many families, mine has had brave souls who were willing to sacrifice for the freedom we treasure today. My grandfather was a Marine who fought in France during World War I. My uncle served in the Coast Guard in World War II and my brother is a retired Coast Guard officer who served in various assignments stateside and around the world in his long career. My dad and uncle served overseas in the Army in World War II, and my niece served multiple tours in the Middle East. As you can see, my family tends to take our love of country seriously.

All of this, of course, brings me to the sacrifice Jesus made for our freedom. Our real freedom, not the freedom of our country but freedom from sin. It is only by sacrifice that freedom can truly happen. I love what the Bible says …

Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?” Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. – John 8:31-36 (NLT)

I guess it’s no coincidence then that I also cry each time I hear the song, The Old Rugged Cross. Knowing the sacrifice Jesus made for my “real” freedom moves me beyond words.

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame.
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown.

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. – 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NLT)