Thursday, July 4, 2013

By: Rachelle Hitt Bilbo

Dining  in the Main Hall

Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

There was once a man who worked YEARS to save up enough money for his family to go on a cruise. However, this cruise was not for pleasure. His goal was to escape the tyranny of his country and to bring his family to a land of much more opportunity and freedom where he would then seek citizenship.

He made sure to pack crackers and other food items to help tide his family over until they reached their destination. Day after day, they passed the beautiful dining hall which boasted of white linens, sparkling silverware, and beautifully prepared dishes. The aroma was tantalizing.  Although the family was very hungry, they would return to their cabin to their crackers. They just knew they couldn't afford a meal that exquisite.

Upon disembarkation, the father was asked by a cruise attendant how his family enjoyed the wonderful meals on the cruise ship. He sadly explained that they could not afford to dine while on the ship. Completely astonished and disheartened, the attendant explained that the meals were included in the purchase of a ticket!!!

Today, we should all be grateful for the freedom we have as American citizens and as Christians.

In John 8:36, the Bible reminds us that "...if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

Sadly, although freedom has been made available to all of us, not everyone chooses to walk in the FULLNESS of that freedom. Many continue to live in bondage to addictions, old habits, and old ways of thinking.

I challenge you today to take advantage of EVERYTHING that God has made available to you as His child AND as an American. Get out of your "cabin" and dine in the main hall! We have the freedom to share the love of Christ and His word. We have the freedom to get an education, to have families, to start businesses!

I further challenge you to use your freedom and opportunities as an American to make even better opportunities available for your future generations.

Dear Lord, I thank You for the men and women who died so that I could have freedom in America. Bless their families.  I thank You Jesus for dying the most horrific death of all so that I could have eternal freedom! I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life. I understand that some people are still physical persecuted today for their bold stand for You. Forgive me for times that I've failed to share Your love because of the thought of mere personal rejection.