For Tuesday, July 4, 2023:
Galatians 5:1 GNT: “Freedom is what we have—Christ has set us free! Stand, then, as free people, and do not allow yourselves to become slaves again.”
Jesus taking away mankind’s sins freed us from living under God’s Laws. Understand that there was nothing wrong with God’s Laws. But instead of loving God, loving our neighbor and being joyful, religion had become rules and regulations. And the Pharisees were concerned only with enforcement of their rules, some Godly and some man-made. Jesus threw out that old system and showed us grace, the free gift of eternal salvation because of our faith. Nothing we can do earns our salvation; Jesus did all the work!
Today we celebrate freedom in our country, July 4th, when the colonies declared their independence from England. But the 13 colonies were forming their own alliance which would come with its own rules and obligations. Now 50 states united and with a 23 trillion dollar economy, our free country has become more complex. At least our representative government holds elections. We don’t have a king or a dictator for life.
Even Jesus knew the necessity and value of a central government, telling us to give to Caesar that which is Caesar’s. But friends, separate your earthly life from your eternal life. This life will soon be over, but we have been given the opportunity to choose Jesus as our eternal Lord and savior.
Thank God we have the freedom to choose Jesus!
Pastor Norton Lawellin
Jesus in the City Fellowship
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