Independence Day Contemplations

July 4th

Today, Craig and I will have been married for 17 years. I remember him telling me about the teasing he got from his co-workers concerning our choice of date (it wasn't a deliberate move, but the story is off this subject). For some, it was apparently hilarious that he was taking on the "old ball and chain" on the day which has been designated to celebrate our country's freedom from oppressive governmental rule. I suppose it shouldn't surprise me at all if worldly-minded people see marriage as being a burden rather than a blessing.

Today, neither of us feel as though marriage has been a type of prison. Yes, our lives have changed. And yes, some of the freedoms which we exercised before taking our vows have been left behind. The addition of children has both complicated things and multiplied the blessing and joy of being "a couple". Over the years, we have had to learn how to look outside of our own wants in an effort to do what is best for the other. And, although we have had a few bumps over the years, I can honestly say that we have had a beautiful and ever-deepening relationship. We only have God to thank for our "success" as He has grown us together in Him. Today, I actually have a concept of what it means to "love" my husband--and Christ. I think it is no accident that God gave us marriage as a picture of our relationship with Him.

Happy Anniversary, Craig!

Freedom in America.

We take so much for granted here. How often do I forget to thank God for my right to free speech, choice of religion and lifestyle? We have the ability to step out in a public atmosphere and not be accosted. We are told we may assemble peacefully in public situations and that we have the ability to exercise our Constitutionally provided rights privately, at home.

Things may soon be changing. Recently, various laws have been passed and allowances have been made in the name of "tolerance". Americans tend to pride ourselves in our ability to "get along" with each other. However, being nice and welcoming "all religions and belief systems" into our country does not mean the favor will be returned.

I suppose growing hostility and intolerance within our own borders should not be surprising to American Christians. As another blogging friend observed, God does not bless those nations who do not obey Him.

Freedom around the World.

In sobering contrast to the festivity of our annual 4th of July celebration, is the lack of freedom for many believers in other countries under rule of Communism, radical Hinduism and Islam. I am again reminded to take time to pray earnestly for those who are born, live and die under severely oppressive regimes which Satan uses to try to stop the spread of the saving Truth of the Gospel. Interestingly, persecution only seems to fan the flames of spiritual awakening, and God gets the glory for bringing His light to the darkest corners of the world. Perhaps we need a good dose of persecution to send us running back to our First Love?

Freedom in Christ.

Regardless of worldly status, all those who have been purchased and redeemed by Christ's blood are freed from slavery to sin and freed to come before Him without shame. I believe one must be cautious in ripping verses out of context in order to make a point...but some passages came to mind, so I thought I'd share them here.

Do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor abusers, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. All things are lawful to me, but not all things profit. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. 1 Corinthians 6:9-12

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. But the Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1

There cannot be Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is no male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

For he who is called a slave in the Lord is a freed man of the Lord. And likewise, he who is called a free man is a slave of Christ. You are bought with a price, do not be the slaves of men. Each in whatever way he was called, brothers, in this remain with God. 1 Corinthians 7:22-24

No servant can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Luke 16:13

Stand fast therefore in the liberty with which Christ has made us free, and do not again be held with the yoke of bondage. Galatians 5:1

Thank you Jesus, for taking my place on the cross, triumphing over sin and death, for constantly bringing to my attention areas of sin, granting me repentance and remaking my human nature so that I may more accurately reflect your likeness.