It was for freedom that Christ has set us free, Paul states in Galatians.  In the United States, we celebrate freedom on July 4th for Independence Day. In Galatians, Paul is encouraging the believers in Galatia to remain free from the Old Covenant Law. Jesus freed humanity from the observance of the Law of Moses, David, and Solomon.

Jesus fulfilled that Law and left us with two simple commands to Love God wholeheartedly and to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. So, as we celebrate the freedom to govern ourselves, let us remember to Love God and love each other.

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love, serve one another.”

Paul continues in Galatians 5:13, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love, serve one another.” Thus, Christian freedom celebrates in service to our fellow human beings. Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 2:16, “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.”

We wish you a joyous Independence Day and a wonderful day celebrating your Freedom. Shalom.