Happy Almost the Fourth of July,
Before we enjoy family, food, friends, and maybe a few cold adult beverages to celebrate the birth of our country, let’s take a moment to reflect on what it means to be free.
Some have interpreted the freedoms outlined in our Constitution and Bill of Rights as a license to do and say anything they want, regardless of the impact on others. The First Amendment grants all American citizens the right to Freedom of Speech. Yes, we have the Freedom to express our thoughts. However, it’s equally true that we can’t shout ‘fire’ in a crowded theater. This principle also applies when we’re navigating Freedom in Christ.
This Freedom is a concept that transcends mere autonomy and delves into the profound realm of moral responsibility. It is not about indulging in our whims and desires but rather about embracing the higher calling of fulfilling our Christian obligations to the world in which we live. The church is called to be the moral voice of the community. For instance, in today’s social media-driven world, the temptation to seek validation is overwhelming through likes and followers is running rampant. However, Freedom in Christ would entail using these platforms to spread positivity and kindness rather than succumbing to the pressures of vanity metrics. The same ethic is at play in our dealings in the world of business. Instead of solely focusing on profit maximization at all costs, a business leader who operates from a perspective of Freedom in Christ prioritizes ethical practices, fair treatment of employees, and sustainability. This shift in mindset reflects a deeper understanding of Freedom as the capacity to make choices that align with one’s inner compass, even when faced with lucrative but unethical opportunities.
Freedom in Christ beckons us to transcend self-serving interests and embody a sense of purpose and righteousness. Whether it’s advocating for social justice, showing compassion in relationships, or making ethical decisions in daily life, true Freedom is found in the conscious choice to align our behaviors with the values and teachings of Christ. This alignment has the power to transform not only our lives but also the world around us.
‘For Freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. ‘ Galatians 5:1