The sky blooms with fire of crimson, cobalt, white…each burst a reminder of battles fought, and boundaries broken. Independence Day. But as the crowd cheers, I’m reflecting on the meaning of Independence Day, not for lack of patriotism, but because Freedom is not just a national liberty, but it’s an everyday courage of choice.
For years, I followed paths etched by others…the wife, the daughter, siblings, and the mother’s steady hand at home. Roles I wore like heirlooms, heavy with expectation. Now, with grief tucked carefully into my chest like folder letters, I find myself staring up at the fireworks, reflecting on the true blessing of walking on a path lit by fire.
To me Independence Day is not only a celebration of history, but it’s a celebration of freedom in my soul. In this celebration, I have echoes of a deeper freedom…one not won on a battlefield, but through a cross. Christ’s death and resurrection marked the release from sin’s rule. Christ stood in my place by the ultimate sacrifice; he laid down his life to give me eternal liberty. John 8:36 – If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
As a child of God, I have freedom from sin and shame, that allows me to live in a relationship with God and to pursue his will for my life. I can walk in grace, truth, and love. This freedom is not earned but given through Christ. It empowers me to live a life free from spiritual bondage, whereas my focus is on my relationship with God. Galatians 5:1 – Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
I hope you celebrated Independence Day with joy. And as you journey along your path, pause to consider—are you living freely, held by grace, guided by truth, and surrounded by love?”
