Independence Day with Gusto
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My brother Terry discovered that “Black-Cat” firecrackers can be dangerous. Like most Americans my family celebrated Independence Day with gusto, some with more gusto than others, if you know what I mean. The annual 4th of July parade and celebration in Herrick, IL brings back fond memories. I still remember when Terry lit a “Black-Cat” and threw it on the sidewalk. It fizzled and went silent.
Thinking it was a dud, Terry picked it up and “BOOM!” It exploded in his hand. Fortunately it didn’t blow a finger off but it did turn his fingers black for awhile. |
Thousands of communities put on spectacular 4th of July firework displays. They are beautiful! But let us not forget the danger and significance of those fireworks. During the War of Independence, Francis Scott Key wrote our national anthem when he was held captive aboard a British war ship that was bombarding Fort McHenry. The signers of the Declaration of Independence and those who fought in the Revolutionary War sacrificed much to gain the freedoms that we enjoy today. On Independence Day let’s pause and thank God for the liberty we have in America. Pray for God’s continued favor on the USA.
We live in a land of sweet liberty and yet multitudes are held captive. We have more people incarcerated behind bars than any other nation in the world. Statistics tell us that 1 out of 10 Americans will spend time in jail or prison. Multitudes of people not behind bars are bound by sin, Satan, and self. The good news is that Jesus Christ came to liberate us and give us our own personal Independence Day. (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18)
Jesus gave this great liberating word, “Therefore, He that the Son sets free is free indeed” (John 8:36 KJV). Like many Americans, the religious Jews took offence at Jesus’ declaration of independence. “We are Abraham’s children,” they said, “We are not slaves to anyone” (John 8:33). Jesus revealed three tyrants that enslave us. (John 8)
First – The SON SETS YOU FREE FROM SIN. In John 8 we find the story of the woman caught in adultery. The Jewish leaders wanted to stone her. Jesus set her free, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.” Some of the saddest words in the Bible are found here, “That is why I said that You will die in your sins’ for unless you believe that I am who I claim to be you will die in your sins” (John 8:21-23). Jesus was lifted up on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for our sins. He sets free and forgives all who will believe and receive Him as Lord and Savior.
Second – The SON SETS YOU FREE FROM SATAN. Jesus describes Satan as the father of lies and a murderer. (John 8:44-45; 10:10) Don’t believe the devil’s lies. “And you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free” (John 8:51).
Third – The SON SETS YOU FREE FROM SELF. The religious Jews were bound by pride and legalism. “We are Abraham’s children!” (John 8:33, 39, 41) Is your soul bound by selfishness, pride, unforgiveness, or fear?
These three tyrants are like my brother’s black-cat firecracker – you think it’s a dud but it can destroy your life. In Jesus Christ you can be truly free. Believe and receive the Son of God today. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free” (Galatians 5:1 NKJV).
by: Cliff Sanders