thoughts on the news of the day: freedom

hmmm…..

            Francis Scott Key, the author of our national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner” found himself in the midst of the highly unpopular War of 1812 and was commissioned to take part in a prisoner exchange attempt with the British.  While on a sea voyage to negotiate the exchange, he anxiously watched …”the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air …” and must have asked himself if our country would survive.  At the dawn’s early light, Key spotted the flag still waving boldly in the air and penned “The Star Spangled Banner” which is now sung at every sports event, political rally and most other gatherings as a tribute to our country and an affirmation of our patriotism and freedom.

            The 4^th of July weekend is a good time to remember our country’s early struggles to become free from the British and also our own struggles to gain freedom from unwanted foes that inhabit our lives.  Freedom from unhealthy eating habits, money problems, relationship difficulties all fall under the category of things from which we need to be freed. 

            So it is a good idea to remember that even though it is important to honor and revere our country and its freedoms, it is even more important to pledge allegiance to a God of our understanding.  Only by surrendering our shortcomings to God will we ever become truly free.  Celebrate our freedom as a nation; it is a good time to rejoice.  But be glad also for a forgiving God who wants us to be free forevermore.

            hmmm…..