Reflections on Freedom

As I think about what it means to be free, this Memorial Day weekend, I think of all the soldiers who have given their lives for the sake of freedom. Jesus said, "there is no greater love, than to lay down your life for a friend."

One of my favorite scenes from the movie Braveheart, is the final scene, when Mel Gibson's character, William Wallace, lays down his life, and is obedient unto death, for his cause, to free Scotland, from the tyranny of England's unjust ruler. What a powerful moment in the film, when under excruciating agony, William cries out, "FREEEEDOM" This always brings a knot in my throat, a lump in my stomach, and tears to my eyes. It reminds me of what Jesus did for me on the cross. He gave up everything for me. He went through terrible pain, and ridicule, for me. It's amazing, isn't it? But what does it mean, to be free? Consider the following scripture: Galatians 5:13 "You were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love." What does freedom mean to you?

We have been given this amazing gift of freedom, so what do we do with it? Galatians 5:13 suggests, that we use this gift to be of service to one another. This is freedom. To be free to serve each other. Some of us are more comfortable in giving, than we are in receiving. Jesus calls us to do both. He says, that it is more of a blessing to give, than to receive. WE NEED to allow others the blessing of giving. When someone pays you a compliment, simply say, "Thank You" This allows their words, to bless them. When we disagree with someone, or disqualify their compliment-we take away the blessing of their kindness. When someone offers to pay you for your time, or service, humbly accept their gift. They are saying to you, with their words, or financial compensation, "we value you" When, we say, "Oh, it was nothing, you don't owe me anything..." We devalue ourselves, and rob them of the blessing of giving. Humbly receive whatever blessings God chooses to give you, so that you will have something of value to share with those who you seek to bless. And as you give to them, YOU will be blessed. This is how God's economy works, "It is more of a blessing to give, than to receive"

I value the gift of freedom, and for me, this gift is about the ability to exercise self-control, and to not give into every whim and desire, but rather to practice patience, and out of a generous spirit seek to serve the people God has placed in my life.

How will you exercise your gift of freedom?

Psalm 119:45
I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments.