Independence – a word that indicates freedom from the oppression of a government or from serving others. It indicates our ability to be self-reliant. This week we celebrate our country’s independence as presented in our founder’s words seeking independence from the far-away land of the British Empire. Our neighbors to the north, are celebrating Canada Day today. For most citizens of the world, independence means we become a nation of free people. Those who form their own government and those who follow the laws of the land will have the ability to choose, speak freely, start a business, follow their dreams, work together and not live under oppressive leadership.

The idea of being free is evident in all areas of life. Kids can’t wait for the day when they’re free of their parents’ rules. Young adults search for ways to live on their own, without parental interference. Middle age allows us to follow our own path and work for the future without boundaries. As we age, we long for freedom from the natural process of aging. Being a Christian requires us to be good citizens and obey what our leaders have established as government even if we don’t always agree with what they do or say. With another election year upon us, we are free to turn off our TVs, put away all contact with the news and live like a hermit for the next few months. Or we could become involved, by becoming educated on the candidates, consider running for political office, or not lose faith in the country in which we live. All of those choices have become clouded in the past century.

It is God’s will that we live as free people because of the price He paid for our freedom from sin. As we celebrate our independence as one nation, under God let’s turn back to Him for our true leadership. Christian men and women through the ages have defended their country and its ideals. They did so because of their love of freedom. May God continue to bless America and keep her safe, and may our true freedom be evidenced in our love for our God and our country.

Happy Independence Week!