Freedom

Galatians 5:13-14

The Message (MSG)

 13-15It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows. For everything we know about God's Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?

This week's service is going to be terrific! There is no sermon, but our fine team of readers will speak 'freedom words' from a great series of scripture readings and quotes from famous promoters of freedom, like Abraham Lincoln and Nelson Mandela. We are also singing all the hits from the hymnal that we rarely sing, like "America" and "America the Beautiful."  Beautiful music, powerful readings, lots worth mulling over...

In preparation for the service, how do you define 'freedom' for yourself? What do you see as 'true freedom'? How do we, as Christian people, create 'freedom in Christ' for one another? What does the example of Christ's sacrifice tell us about freedom and oppression?

Have a great Fourth of July!  See you soon!