Into the Fire

As we approach Independence Day, there are many interpretations of freedom. I wanted to look at what freedom is not. 

Freedom is not doing whatever you want to do because if everyone did whatever they wanted to do, they would definitely be infringing upon someone else's version of "freedom". 

Freedom is not saying whatever you want to say even though you are able to do so. Without restraint your words will definitely infringe upon someone else's version of "freedom". 

Freedom is not imposing your will and lawlessness upon others because that is absolutely not freedom for them. 

So what is freedom? Probably not what you expected. Freedom comes with "conditions" and/or "restraints" for it to be truly freedom. Freedom gives you reasons to choose to do and say and act upon those things which are right and true and valuable and fitting for a morally consistent type of life. Within this lifestyle there are reasonable laws that protect and further a suitable way to live while providing a consequence and/or punishment for inflicting harm to others through a disregard for the provisions of this freedom.

Over time men and women in great numbers have given the ultimate sacrifice to preserve this freedom and what it stands for. They surrendered theirs to serve the country that had given it to them. One Nation under God. 

One man who is also God, gave the biggest sacrifice of all when he went to that cruel Cross of crucifixion to lay down His life for all of mankind who would willingly surrender their lives to Him for the beauty of eternity in heaven. He took all of the lawless sinfulness upon His broken body as the punishment rendered for us humans. A slow and painful death until He said, "It is finished." The sinless Jesus, the Savior of the world, offered the ultimate price to set humanity free. 

What is being free?

. . . 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 . . . So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

Freedom is in Jesus. 

No words to thank you enough, Lord God Amighty. Thank you, Jesus.