As we celebrate our freedom we’re mindful of the men and women who have sacrificed and right now are on the front lines so we can enjoy the benefits of our freedom. The words of Lee Greenwood’s song “Proud To Be An American” captures the sentiment of many people as we reflect upon our freedom,

If tomorrow all the things were gone I’d worked for all my life,
And I had to start again with just my children and my wife.
I’d thank my lucky stars to be living here today,
‘Cause the flag still stands for freedom and they can’t take that away.

And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.
And I’d gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land God bless the U.S.A.

From the lakes of Minnesota, to the hills of Tennessee,
Across the plains of Texas, from sea to shining sea,

From Detroit down to Houston and New York to LA,
Well, there’s pride in every American heart,
And it’s time we stand and say:

I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.
And I’d gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land! God bless the U.S.A.

And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.
And I’d gladly stand up… next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land God bless the U.S.A.

Although we enjoy our freedom we must not forget that eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. John F. Kennedy warned us of the cost, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”

Liberty gives us the right to choose and freedom is the result of the right choice. Beyond the freedom that we enjoy as a nation there is a freedom of the soul. I taught for several years at a maximum security prison and the inmates I taught experienced a greater freedom of the soul than many people outside of the prison. They knew the truth that Jesus described,

So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. (John 8:31-32)

Do you know the truth that brings a freedom to your soul? Don’t miss the freedom that God wants to bring to your life.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

Follow me on twitter:  rickhiggins5