So Much To Celebrate

Every July 4th, we celebrate the freedom we enjoy as a nation—barbecues, fireworks, and flags waving in the summer breeze. But while we thank God for our country’s freedom, it’s a great time to reflect on an even deeper kind of freedom—one that can’t be taken by war or won at the ballot box. Jesus said in John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” That kind of freedom goes beyond borders or laws; it’s a freedom that starts in the heart. 

The truth is, even in a free country, we can still live in chains—bound by fear, guilt, bitterness, or sin. But Jesus came to break those chains. Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:1, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Christ didn’t just die to save us from sin’s penalty; He rose again to give us new life, new purpose, and real, lasting freedom. 

That kind of freedom doesn’t always come with fireworks. Sometimes it looks like quiet peace in the middle of chaos, or the courage to forgive someone who’s hurt us. Sometimes it’s the strength to walk away from temptation or to trust God when everything feels uncertain. This freedom is daily, not just something we celebrate once a year. And the best part? It’s available to everyone who puts their trust in Jesus. 

So this Independence Day, let’s thank God for the freedom we enjoy in this country—but let’s not stop there. Let’s lean into the freedom Christ offers us every day. Let’s live like people who’ve been set free, loving others, serving boldly, and walking in grace. As 2 Corinthians 3:17 reminds us, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” And that’s the kind of freedom worth celebrating—today and every day.