Blessed to Be Free

Independence Day in the United States is one of our country’s most patriotic days, and rightfully so as it commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Family, friends, cookouts, hot dogs, hamburgers, and fireworks displays often fill the special day’s agenda.

For all the patriotism on display on July 4^th, some Americans don’t realize the role religious freedom played in our country’s independence and that there are four references to God in the Declaration of Independence. Among the many freedoms Americans were seeking to gain from British control was religious liberty and the right to worship freely without fear from government interference.

As we gather today with our friends and family to celebrate our country’s independence, I want to share with you two verses that remind me of the freedom that only God’s unconditional love can provide:

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1).

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed (John 8:36).

We are blessed to live in a country where we are free to worship and celebrate our Lord without fear of repercussions. Unfortunately, however, not every Christian around the world is as blessed. Please pray for those who continue to practice their faith despite the risk of persecution.

I pray your day is filled with celebration and joy.

God bless you,

David Cerullo