Freedom

"It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery."  Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

To me, Memorial Day is truly an important remembrance in the United States.  It is on this day that we remember those who gave unselfishly of themselves to gain and keep the freedoms we enjoy every day.  Holding close to our hearts ALL who have given of themselves is truly so important.  Growing up, it was very clear to our family that Daddy was a Marine Sergeant.  It wasn't as if he spoke in abundance about the Korean War.  In fact, he rarely discussed it.  Yet, we knew he was a Marine and he was very proud of that.

Fast forward a few years and our son is off to serve in the Navy.  We couldn't be more proud of him and all he has accomplished as he dedicates his life today to keeping our sacred freedoms.  As Christian searched for his journey after high school, many routes were sought.  Yet, his heart always told him to serve, and now he is doing just that.

Members of our Armed Forces have given, and continue to give, so much of themselves so that the rest of us can enjoy the freedoms that we have been given.  On this Memorial Day, it's our chance to remember those of the military that are gone as well as thank those who continue to serve.  These individuals sacrifice much for our freedom.

Certainly, the one that sacrificed everything for us is Jesus.  He entered this world knowing how He was going to leave it.  He walked through his 33 years on Earth knowing that His true mission was to die for our freedom.  Freedom from what?  Freedom from sin!!  By His death on the cross, he released the hold of sin on each of us.  Such a freedom could not have been won any other way.  No, He didn't die so that we wouldn't sin anymore.  We sin each and every day, by what we do and by what we don't do.

The freedom we have in Jesus is that our sin would not end in the despair of hell.  Our freedom means although we may sin, by believing that Jesus set us free from this sin, we will be with Him in paradise!  We need to do one thing - we need to believe - for this freedom.  We need to stand firm to the teachings of Jesus and not fall away.  When we do that, we have the many wonderful freedoms that faith gives us.  By far, the greatest being the freedom of living a life where our sin is not held against us.  We are free to be with Jesus in heaven!  

"Dearest Jesus, During this Memorial Day holiday, may we remember all who have given of their lives to protect the freedoms that we have.  You, Dear Lord, are at the top of that list.  We know that by your death and resurrection, we are free from the chains of sin to be able to live with you in paradise.  Help our thoughts to be drawn to this each and every day.  In your glorious name we pray, Amen!"