Free Indeed: A 4th of July Reflection

Happy Birthday, America! Officially, we’re 249 years old today! That’s a long time—until you start looking around. America turns 249 this year. That’s something to celebrate! (Next year is going to be grand!) 

For nearly two and a half centuries, we’ve waved the flag, sung the anthem, and lived in the blessing of hard-won freedom. But in the grand sweep of history, we’re still young. Ancient Egypt lasted nearly 3,000 years. China’s dynasties have risen and fallen throughout four millennia. Rome stood for over 500. Kingdoms rise, and empires fall. Even the greatest nations are temporary.

This is why today, while we give thanks for the freedoms we enjoy, we also look higher. As Jesus’ followers, we know there’s a deeper kind of freedom—one no government can grant and no enemy can steal. It’s the kind Christ offers: freedom from sin, shame, fear, and death itself. 

Because true freedom doesn’t come from a document—it comes from a Deliverer. Not from being independent but from being dependent on Christ. He’s the One who sets hearts free—not just for a season, but forever.

And here’s the paradox: a man in chains who belongs to Jesus is freer than a king who only bows to himself. Because absolute freedom isn’t doing whatever we want. It’s becoming who we were made to be.

So, yes, let the bells ring and the fireworks fly. But let your heart remember the deeper freedom that never fades. And may we use every liberty we’ve been given to love well, serve boldly, and point people back to Jesus.

Celebrate well, live free—and follow the King whose Kingdom has no end.

Sharing His Wonder,