Today, July 4th, we celebrate our freedom. Nearly 250 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the United States was formed. Merriam-Webster defines freedom as, “the quality or state of being free: such as the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action.” Freedom takes on many meanings for all of us and we are all blessed to live in a country that enables that freedom.
Monday, I took Addie and a friend to Linville Falls where we hiked to different levels to see the splendor that is God’s creation. I walked behind them most of the time just enjoying listening to their conversations and laughing, while breathing in all the sights, smells, and sounds the forest offered. We get busy in our daily lives and forget to stop and enjoy all there is around us. It was freeing to know we did not have a cell signal and it encouraged us to enjoy each other’s company and our surroundings. As I relished in the beautiful scenery, I also appreciated how they both would notice I was behind them and would remind each other to wait for me, and how many times they thanked me for taking them. I returned very tired and grateful for the experience of freedom to explore all God has to offer.
Galatians 5:13 says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” Freedom comes with great responsibility and just because we have it, does not mean it should be squandered or taken for granted. We must remember 2 Corinthians 3:17, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” This July 4th, let us all be thankful for the freedom our faith provides us and ever grateful for our beautiful country. Have a happy and safe July 4th!