Thankful For Freedom

As I get ready to celebrate America’s Birthday this weekend I can’t help but stop and say thanks to the countless men and woman who fought and paid for the freedoms we have as Americans. When I was younger I thought there really was such a thing as free stuff in the world but as an adult I know first hand free costs someone.  I love to give the resources I make away free, but the truth is it may not cost you, but it costs me. We live in a day when people expect certain rights and privileges. Most of the time we never stop and think about the costs and sacrifices others make for us to enjoy the freedoms we have. So before I cookout, light some fireworks and enjoy the festivities I want to pause and just say thanks and that I appreciate all those who fought and paid for the freedoms we have. Each year more and more of those freedoms are challenged and many of them are threatened. I am thankful I live in a place where I can still read and practice the Bible. I’m glad I have the right to proclaim the Gospel although it’s becoming less and less popular yet, I am still free to do so and for that I am very thankful. I’m also thankful I live in a place that gives me the freedom to bear arms. I get to vote, although each year there are less people I want to vote for and have to settle for the lessor of evils. I am so honored to be an American and I’m also thankful of all the places I could live in America I get to live in the South.

But no matter what freedoms come or go in this country I am thankful for the freedoms I have in Christ Jesus. I don’t ever want to forget what Jesus did for me. I am free indeed thanks to Jesus and what He did for me on the cross. I am free indeed no matter what the future holds, I know who holds the future and I do not want to take Jesus’ “free gift” for granted because it wasn’t free, it cost Him everything.

So as I get out the BBQ sauce and light up the grill please know this, I realize the freedoms I enjoy today as a Christ Follower and a Southern American where bought with a huge price and for that I am thankful! Praise the name of Jesus forever!  God Bless America! God have mercy on us all and help us Jesus to know that there is no true freedom outside of You!

Enjoy the 4th, go to church on the 5th!