Freedom

As we celebrate July 4th, we can focus on two kinds of freedom. One can be political and civic.

The United States' ancestors built in multiple layers of freedom, such as:

• Freedom of Speech

• Choices in practicing religion

• Voting rights

• Due process and the rule of law

• Freedom of the Press

• Freedom of Assembly and Protest

• Privacy and property protection

• Economic opportunities with personal mobility

• Historical sacrifice (soldiers fought for rights)

• Inspiration to others

Let us cherish the elements of freedom and thank God for the grace He bestowed upon America. Indeed, as Katharine Lee Bates wrote in the lyrics of "America the Beautiful," and Samuel A. Ward composed the music, America is truly blessed with "brotherhood from sea to shining sea," https://youtu.be/r33mZ9ikTkE.

The second type of freedom encompasses the eternal state of our souls in Christianity. God sent His only Son, Jesus, into the world to die on Calvary for the sins of humanity, John 3:16: " For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

God demonstrated His love to humankind because He desires all men to have life abundantly,

John 10:10 b: "I came that they might have life and have it to the full." The opportunity to live

life to the full is a great freedom.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Call to Action:

• Reflect on the value of freedom.