The Cross and the Flag

2 Corinthians 3:17

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

As the fireworks flared and boomed, our country celebrated another year of independence. A freedom fought for and protected by our men and women in the armed forces. I thank God for their sacrifices and bravery. I cannot imagine being at war. Hunkering down in ditches, putting up with one-hundred-twenty degrees of heat, tolerating annoying insects, snakes, spiders, or being separated from family and friends.

Pray for the folks who defend American freedom. Give them a thank you, when you see them. My dad fought in WW 2, and I will be forever grateful to him.

As much as I thank God for our soldiers, even more I praise God for the one who sacrificed for the ultimate freedom. Jesus Christ gave his life so that my life could be saved. He allowed my sins to fall on him, so that grace could pour over me. Jesus paid the price, like many soldiers, he died for my liberty. Then he rose in victory. He won the battle.

When I think of freedom, I look to the cross and the flag, two symbols of sacrifice, hope and love.