PENTECOST V
July 2, 2023
“With Liberty and Justice for All”
“For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”
“For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters, only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another.”Galatians 5:1, 13
As Independence Day is upon us, all things relating to rights, citizenship, opportunities and freedoms of every kind are the focus of newscasts, editorials, and feature articles in almost all news sources. The overarching theme celebrates the unique nature of our country’s form of government, and the sacrifices made by so many over nearly 250 years of the existence of the United States. Wars have been fought, both in other countries as well as on our own soil, Americans against one another, to release the bonds of slavery and oppression.
The loss of freedom has been a threat throughout history, from the familiar story of the enslavement of the Hebrew people in Egypt to the present-day invasion of Ukraine, as defeat of this nation will surely destroy the freedoms of its citizens.
Throughout the Bible, we find references to freedom and being free in many contexts, and in Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he explains how Christian freedom means much more than personal liberty. As believers, we are not only freed from slavery to the law, but we are freed for bringing Christ’s love to our neighbors. We are not legally required to relate to others in service, but we are free to take the opportunity to reflect God’s love and Jesus’ example as we love our neighbors as ourselves.
The PBS program “Finding Your Roots” has provided a variety of people with their family histories, and for the Black guests, the enslavement of their ancestors is often part of the story. Usually, the reaction to documents showing these individuals listed as assets, enumerated only by age and gender, is a quiet sadness, to think of anyone being so dehumanized. However, the guests then move on to expressing pride and appreciation for the perseverance and survival of those who went before them, as here they are, continuing a legacy of strength.
As Christians, we are blessed to have been given spiritual freedom through the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus. Hand in hand with the empowerment of freedom comes responsibility, which is not a burden, but a gift and a privilege. As we act in personal freedom and on behalf of others, our actions speak loudly and clearly that we are followers of our Savior, Jesus the Christ, serving our sisters and brothers in need wherever they are.
Forever thankful for freedom through our Lord,
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers