Hello Friends!
As America celebrates 250 years of independence, we remember the precious gift of freedom.
Freedom… what a powerful word and reality.
“…A state of exemption from the power or control of another; liberty; exemption from slavery, servitude, or confinement. Freedom is personal, civil, political, and religious.”
—Webster’s 1828 Dictionary
As people of the Word, we know the cries for freedom in the book of Exodus. We know the provision of liberty as God delivered His people from captivity in Egypt. And we know, too, the cries for freedom again and again as history bore witness to what seemed to be a hopeless cycle of captivity. But God never freed His people so they could belong to themselves. He freed them so they could belong to Him, and that would only happen one way.
Jesus—the true and better Deliverer, bringing ultimate freedom. He is the One who broke the bonds of sin and set captives free, even while under earthly kingdoms marked by the power of sin. He gave His life so that all who will come by faith, may be free from the power of sin and death.
All who will come by faith.
Called to freedom.
As beloved children of the Most High God.
Empowered to live free by the promised Holy Spirit.
All because Jesus paid the debt with His precious blood.
“For you were called to freedom, brothers [& sisters]. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
Galatians 5:13
Freedom to love and serve one another; that is our reality as born-again, beloved children of God.
As the United States of America celebrates independence, let us remember the cost of our earthly freedom and give thanks. We are so grateful for this earthly freedom that has been so costly, imperfectly practiced, and always in need of righteousness. Let us also remember, even more, the cost of our eternal freedom; and with that freedom, serve one another in love.
Looking forward to tomorrow,
~ Amy & Your Friends Church Staff Team
p.s.
The July Newsletter is linked below.
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