EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH
Celebrate freedom every day
By Murray Hohns
I like the Fourth of July. I enjoy the fireworks and picnics that feature grilled hamburgers, hot dogs and corn on the cob.
The Fourth is the day we celebrate our independence. I like my independence, my freedom and my right to choose. These things are yours as well. You and I are free to choose to do whatever we want to do. Isn't that what freedom is all about?
It's hard to realize that we once chafed under the tyranny of England, since that country has been a staunch ally for all my lifetime and then some. We also copied much from that country — our laws, our language and many traditions.
When I was a teenager, I wanted to be free. I thought my dad was a demanding taskmaster, and I resented his rule and his rules. I wanted out of that house. Now I look back, and realize that he was almost always right and that his rules were for my benefit.
Scripture says that those of us who have Christ in our hearts are free indeed. How can that be? Simply said, Christ gives us the good sense, the assurance to trust in God, to walk in his ways and to do what he says, which allows God to bless and care for us, and that frees us to be carefree so we can care for others.
When America declared itself independent of English rule 200 plus years ago, all we really did was to trade one set of rules for another set of rules. We told ourselves that this was the better choice, though many doubted the wisdom of that decision. Sooner or later we all find that freedom comes from following the rules and not from reacting to the random whims and fancies that beset all of us.
And in the end, true freedom comes only to those who follow the rules. The greatest amount of freedom comes from following the highest authority. You are free to pick the authority that you want over you. But once you do, then your rewards will be measured accordingly. I chose to follow the most high God. His authority is the highest. No one is greater than he. He rules heaven and earth. His rewards are beyond description. His peace is perfect peace. His provision is abundant living and good relationships with all.
God's rules are for my benefit, my welfare and my future. I am secure in his love and his protection.
I know he provides for me in good times and bad times. I am free because I follow his rules. If the unexpected comes, and it does to all on the earth, I am prepared.
I have learned how to act because I have studied his rules.
I am free because I have a savior who gave his life to redeem me. That same freedom is offered to you. Would you like to be free from the fear of tomorrow? From the fear that there might not be enough for you? From all fears? Just ask that savior to come into your heart. You will find that he really cares for you. You can be free for the rest of your life. Then your independence will be worth celebrating every day. Life will be a picnic.
H. Murray Hohns of Makiki is a retired engineer and an associate pastor at New Hope Christian Fellowship.
