07-04-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
July 4, 2025
I appreciate the wisdom of the famous philosopher, Bob Dylan, who said that a “…hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with his freedom.” In Galatians 5:1, we read, “For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” What choices do you make each day that demonstrate that your freedom is never separated from your responsibility? There are times when freedom calls forth a choice to be responsible in such a way that it appears we are not free. Freedom through faith is not necessarily thoughtless self-centeredness. It is the choice to truly give of self, and as followers of Christ, it is choosing the way of nonviolent self-giving. 

O Lord, I am thankful for the gift of freedom through grace that you have bestowed upon me. I want to do more than simply enjoy this gift; I want to use it for the benefit of others. Amen.