FROM THE PULPIT; HOLIDAYS OF FREEDOM SHOULD BE CELEBRATED

Did you ever notice how many of the holidays of summer are patriotic? Memorial Day reminds us to remember especially those who gave their life in military service to our country. We in fact remember all those who hayed served. June 6 marks D-Day, when the Allies landed on Normandy and began to retake mainland Europe from the Nazis. June 14 is Flag Day, when the "Stars and Stripes" was first approved as our national flag. We honor also Betsy Ross, who made that flag. Finally, July 4 marks Independence Day. We declared our freedom from the oppressive government of England on that day in 1776, and asserted our status as a sovereign nation. It was only 7 years later, after much bloodshed and war that freedom was sealed, but our Declaration of Independence stands as one of the most important documents/events of the millenium. Really.

Many people, both famous and unknown, have contributed greatly to the freedoms we have enjoyed as Americans. And in spite of our shortcomings, or whatever revisionist historians try to tell us, our American heritage is a grand and glorious one. We do well both to celebrate and to give thanks. -

Nevertheless, the sacrifices of our statesmen and our soldiers cannot compare with the sacrifice and commitment of our Lord Jesus Christ. He too gave His life for us, not for Americans only, but for all humanity. He too shed His blood, not for political or economic freedom, but for freedom from sin, death, and hell. "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God."(Rom. 3:23) "But God made Him who had no sin (Jesus) to become sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God."(2 Cor. 5:21) "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free."(Gal. 5:1)

No government, no nation, no war we could fight could ever win us the freedom of the spirit Jesus Christ has given us. No political, economic, or social freedom could ever change the human heart."But the Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit."(Rom. 14:17) "My peace I give you,"Jesus said. (John 14:27) "So, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of sinful nature." There is no law against the fruit of the Spirit. (Gal. 5:16-23)

Remember, celebrate, and work to maintain our freedoms. But never forget our truest and greatest freedom, and the one that can never be taken away is our spiritual freedom given us through Jesus Christ our Lord. Jesus said,"If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32)