When you read daily about what goes on in other places in the world, it should give us plenty of reason to rejoice and be thankful for living in the U.S.  The freedom that we too often take for granted, is matched no place else on the planet.  We are free from oppression and tyranny, and free to choose our own destiny.  We are free to worship, or not, according to our own beliefs.  We are free to speak and write about what we believe, or about what we believe should be changed and why, constrained only by what is decent and moral.  And we are free to pursue our own dreams and passions.

This freedom that we know and love was bought at a tremendous price.  Our founding fathers and revolutionary war veterans took a giant leap to break free from oppressive rulers, and set our nation on its own course of independence and freedom.  The men and women who have served in all branches of our military have continued in the high calling to preserve, protect, and defend our freedom.  We will forever be indebted to them.  To just say “Thank you” seems so little compared to what has been done for us.  Yet, we should remember to do so, and not just on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, but at every opportunity we encounter a veteran or one who is still in service today.

Our ultimate freedom was also bought at a high price.  The freedom that we have to no longer be enslaved to sin was bought and paid for by Jesus Christ.  He paid the ransom when we were captives to sin by the shedding of his blood at Calvary.  If we know and have accepted this gift of freedom, we too have a responsibility.  We have a responsibility to live differently, love generously, and serve others in ways worthy of the price that was paid for us.

“Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.  Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the King.”           1Peter 2:16-17

Do you have and know this ultimate freedom?  Is so, praise God and give him thanks.  If not, why not?  What is holding you back?

 See you at the ramp.