The Meaning of Freedom

The life of a pastor is always interesting, sometimes more so than others. Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit with two groups of people who will not see their families for the next twelve months. That's not all they have in common. Both groups find themselves in this state because of choices they have made. This is where the similarities end though.

One group has lost their freedom because of bad choices and behavior. They are incarcerated in the county jail, awaiting an open bed at a larger facility. They abused the freedom that is ours in this great nation, and therefor lost their freedom. When they have completed their sentence they will be released back into society hopefully as productive members who cherish the freedom they so wantonly discarded in favor of the satisfaction of their own selfish desires.

I met with the other group at the send off for the 1168th Transportation company of the Iowa National Guard. These men and women have chosen to serve because of the freedom we enjoy. Their commitment to preserving this freedom has lead them to choose to put their lives on the line. Tears of pride as well as sorrow were shed last night as family and friends said farewell to these brave men and women.

Quite a contrast, on the one hand those who had freedom and gave it up by abusing the freedom of others, and on the other hand those who have freedom and cherish it enough to risk their lives to keep it, not only for themselves but for the rest of us. In fact these men and women will be fighting to ensure the future freedom of those from the first group. Selfishness versus selflessness.

There is a tremendous spiritual message here. We were created with the utmost of freedom. We gave that up in search of something greater, and therefor lost the freedom God gave us in the garden. However, He loved us so much, and wanted to re-establish the freedom He intended for us, that He sent His son who was willing to give His life for it.

We have a choice to make. Will we continue in the incarcerated state of sin, not being able to enjoy the inalienable freedom with which we were created, or will we accept the freedom that was purchased at Calvary? If we chose freedom, we should stand boldly and be willing to risk all in order to bring this freedom to others.

Do you choose freedom today?

Enjoy the Java.

Jim