True Freedom

For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. Galatians 5:13

Dear Friends in Christ,

Today is Juneteenth, the day we remember when the news (and enforcement) of emancipation from slavery reached Texas after the Civil War, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation by President Lincoln. Our country’s Independence Day is coming up on July 4. Recent protests borrowed a patriotic cry of “no kings.” Surely slavery and tyranny are grave sins that still leave ripple effects centuries later. So we celebrate our freedom and independence.

As we do, however, we are wise to remember the counsels of our founding fathers, and even more so, the counsels of God about human freedom. We can use our freedom wisely and to bless others and live rightly. Or we can use our freedom in destructive and self-destructive ways. The collect for the nation (BCP, p. 258) asks for God’s grace “that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will.” As Christians, we have a king—Jesus Christ—the one who “emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness” (Philippians 2:7a). We call serving Jesus “perfect freedom” (BCP, p.57), for in obedience to Jesus we find our true calling and the new life of service in which we can truly thrive.

How are you using this freedom that God has generously given you? How are you letting go of the shackles of sin and self-interest and taking hold of the freedom of God’s self-giving grace and truth? How are you using your freedom to bless others and help them come to know and love the Lord?

Juneteenth was a stop along the long road to true freedom for those whose ancestors were enslaved in this country. Each day, God brings us closer to him and his dream for us of true freedom in Christ, and true joy in his service. God bless you on this road as you love and serve the Lord.

Yours in Christ,

-Tom