June 21, 2022
Dear Family of Our Redeemer’s
As we move toward July, one of the big dates on the calendar that jumps out at us and that we celebrate with many loud noises is July 4–Independence day. The word freedom is used in many conversations to emphasize the importance of the observances and we feel a deep appreciation that we are the beneficiaries of this priceless gift in our daily living.
Freedom is certainly an important word in the Christian faith as well. Our most frustrating and depressing daily problem is that “we are in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves“. Even though there will be large celebrations and loud explosions throughout the land to proclaim our independence and freedom, we discover that we are not free. Jesus came to bring us a higher and more personal experience in all aspects of life when He announced: “If you continue in my word, you are my disciples indeed and you will know the truth and the truth shall set you free. . .So if the Son shall set you free, you will be free indeed”. (John 8:31, 32)
I am grateful to be living in the “land of the free and the home of the brave”. I have never experienced life in a world that controls who I am, what I can do, and how I can spend my life. My parents were immigrants and came to the United States because they were being controlled by authoritarian tyrants. “Give me liberty or give me death” was their universal cry. Life without freedom is considered “worse than death”. In these 21st century times, citizens in many authoritarian countries are risking and sacrificing their lives to preserve and spread freedom. We support and applaud their courage and commitment.
Yet, in spite of the blessings of living in the free world, there is need in our lives for truth and freedom that only Jesus can bring. The global trauma between nations, the widespread violence within our communities, the turmoil in climate conditions–these all point to a need for reconciliation and healing that the Son came to bring to a sick and dying world.
The truth and freedom that has been given to us through the Son is an even greater GIFT than the freedom and independence of July 4. Please notice the big “if” at the beginning of Jesus announcement in John 8:31. Our faith and life is shaped by our thinking. Even though the Son has already given us these gifts, we are not able to get the benefit of them if our thinking is still dominated by self help systems, fear, doubt, or worry. The word of Jesus shapes our thoughts, creates faith, brings peace, builds on the foundation of truth, and propels us on our way in joy. How important it is then, to “continue in Jesus Word. . . to know the truth. . . to know freedom. . . So if the Son shall set you free, you will be free indeed.“
Blessings on your journey of freedom and independence.
Interim Supply Pastor, Fred Mai
