Freedom in Christ
As we celebrate our independence today, we are reminded of the incredible freedom that we are blessed with by living in America! But, even more importantly, this holiday reminds me of the freedom I have in Christ! The Bible has so much to say about the freedom we obtain when we become followers of Jesus…
Romans 8:1-4
1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful humanity to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in human flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:17
17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Galatians 5:13-14
13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Ephesians 3:12
12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
This time of year always reminds me of working at Fellowship of Christian Athletes camp. Each summer during college, I would go to UCLA the week before 4th of July to work as an FCA huddle leader. Over 600 high schoolers would come to practice and play a certain sport that was coached by college athletes and college coaches. Each night, we would have chapel program all together. We were more than blessed to have worship led by the band, The Katinas! Not only are they gifted singers and musicians, but it was such a gift each night to see all those high schoolers praising Jesus and allowing themselves to be free to be who they are and free to worship our Creator! Here are song lyrics for a song by The Katinas that we would always sing at camp! These words really speak into the freedom that we receive when Christ as our Savior!
“Free” by The Katinas
This ones for you Father
A song within my heart
I dedicate to honor
The depth of who you are
Every hope and treasure
I lay down at your feet
Riches can’t compare to what
You’ve given to me
Pre chorus:
Now I’m looking for a new day
My destiny is waiting
Here in this beautiful release
Chorus:
My God set me free
So I can clearly see
Your Love carried me
So I could live to be
You did it just for me
Verse 2:
Blessed are the nations
That lift your name on high
The one and only perfect sacrifice
And all creation
One day will testify
Love so amazing that you gave your life
Pre chorus:
Now I’m looking for a new day
My destiny is waiting
Here in this beautiful release
Chorus:
My God set me free
So I can clearly see
Your Love carried me
So I could live to be
You did it just for me
Bridge:
Love has taken over me
I have been set free
Oh Love has taken over me
I have been set free
Chorus:(x2)
Here is another song by The Katinas, “I Am Free”, speaking of the amazing life full of the freedom in Christ! This video was taken at The Rock Church San Diego’s Easter Service at the Padres Stadium. (Now imagine this energy in over 600 high schoolers in a small auditorium singing this song, jumping up and down, and praising Jesus!! It is one special thing to witness!!!) Take a look!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5VbTItQnss
We are so blessed by all the sacrifices that were made in order to establish our free country, but never forget the One who made the Ultimate Sacrifice! God Bless America!!
