Thankful for Freedom

Freedom is not free. It comes with a cost. And today I am thankful for all the men and women who have paid that cost to serve our country. A country of freedom and privilege. A country of plenty and of beauty. A country of hard workers and people willing to sacrifice for our abundant opportunities.


I went to a military college. No, I was not in the military but I was surrounded by young men and women who chose to be a part of the military system for four years and then some that chose it for a lifetime. Because our college was largely military, the rules and regulations governing life around campus were military oriented. There were rules in place to promote the discipline and the honor of those who serve. I remember that the first time I would see one of the guys in "regular" clothes they would look so different. They were always in uniform and that is what we were used to. If I walked with Danny around campus, he could not hold my hand or put his arm around me. I was escorted. We were never allowed inside the military dorms or even allowed to walk behind them. At 5:00 every afternoon, the campus stopped. Whether you were walking or driving or just sitting outside, you stood and turned toward the flag pole. Those in uniform saluted while the rest of us put our hand over our heart. At midnight each night, taps would sound out across the campus. There is something very comforting and safe about hearing that bugle tune playing in the stillness of the night reminding us that another day was over. We were safe. We were free to study and play and go about our business because someone was paying the price elsewhere.


I have friends who have served all over the world. They have raised their children on foreign soil or on military bases. They have sacrificed. They have served this country well. And I am thankful for them.


I am also thankful for the ultimate Freedom. The freedom that comes from Someone who died. From Someone who paid the price for me. From Someone who broke the yoke of slavery and gives me the freedom to live in power and in truth. The kind of freedom that isn't dependent on what country you live in or what family you come from. The kind of freedom that is for all mankind. The kind of freedom that sets all captives free. The kind of freedom that brings healing and hope and power and strength. The kind of freedom that ushers in a Kingdom.


May God bless those who protect us. Those who serve this country. Those who are living here while their loved ones are serving there. Those who have lost a father, a mother, a brother or a friend. May God bless America and the freedoms we are privileged to have.


And may you live in the Freedom that comes from Jesus. 

Christ has set us free to live a free life. 

So take your stand! 

Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you. 

Galatians 5:1 the message