Unique Observance
By Caron Cline
Burke County
The Fourth of July observance is unique to the United States of America, for it is a celebration of our nation’s independence from British rule. The Second Continental Congress voted to declare independence on July 2nd, 1776, but actually ratified the Declaration of Independence two days later on July 4th. These men stated that the thirteen American colonies would no longer bow to the King of England, George III, but were now ‘united, free, and independent states. Americans celebrate their freedom each year on July 4th through parades, fireworks, concerts, and family gatherings. Only US citizens have the unique privilege of celebrating such a rich heritage of individual freedom; the freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness. Similarly, the celebration of our deliverance from the bondage of sin is the unique privilege of born-again Christians. Formerly, we were oppressed by a harsh taskmaster called Satan and were powerless to overcome his deception. This cycle of depravity began with the disobedience of the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, and has continued from generation to generation. Unlike the American colonies, we had no weapons capable of defeating an invisible, supernatural foe. There was no hope of freedom unless someone more powerful than Satan and his spiritual hosts of wickedness came to the rescue. In eternity past, the plan for deliverance was ratified. Our Heavenly Father’s love refused to leave His creation without a remedy; therefore, He sent His only Son to seek and to save the lost. The price for freedom was not the blood of mere men, but the blood of the Son of Man, the required ransom in exchange for our souls. Jesus delivered His followers from the power of sin and made them free! Every Christian has been granted the benefits of eternal life, freedom from the captivity of sin and shame, and joy unspeakable and full of glory. Believers are now free to run in the paths of our Lord’s commands. In other words, obedience to the word of God allows freedom from any form of bondage and opens doors of protection, purpose, and power. Believers are now free to bask in the warmth of our Lord’s love. Nothing can ever separate the people of God from the love of God, not even death. Believers are now free to experience the fullness of our Lord’s joy. Abiding in Christ and allowing His Words to abide in us, produces spiritual fruit and proof that we are truly the children of God. The promises of ‘Christ in us, the hope of glory’, and ‘there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus’, are worthy of all our praise and warrant a lifetime of the celebration. After all, Peter reminds us that this freedom which cost the Father His only Son is a subject that even the angels long to understand. That’s worth some fireworks every day of the year!!!!
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Caron is a follower of Jesus Christ and a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Morganton, NC. She loves to teach the word of God.
Her desire is to see every believer grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord.
You can read more Christian News from Caron HERE.
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