Annual traditions are quite meaningful to me. I have fond memories associated with many holidays and special events. Ever since I was a young child, my family has had a “thankfulness can” that we pass around each Thanksgiving and insert cards describing what we are thankful for that year. We also read a card from a previous year. At Christmas, my siblings and I would pick out our own ornaments that reflected what was noteworthy to each of us that year. Independence Day is another holiday that holds tremendous significance to our country. You are probably able to think of traditions that you enjoy each 4th of July. I remember many occasions in which we would invite friends over to watch the parade that went down the street of my hometown. Afterwards, we would eat burgers and watch fireworks in the evening. We are indebted to individuals who serve our country, both past and present. While the freedom for which they fight is astronomical, there is a liberty that is even more unfathomable.

Because of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, we are able to experience the most immeasurable freedom that we will ever know. “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” (Galatians 5:13). So many individuals serve our country and sacrifice for various freedoms. As believers, we can experience freedom from the weight of sin. In turn, we are called to serve others through the love of Christ, by giving sacrificially, putting their needs above our own, and sharing the Gospel. Traditions may change through time, but our freedom in Christ is eternal.

By His Grace,
Adam