living loved

. . . Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. – 2 Corinthians 13:14

“They may take our lives, but they’ll never take our freedom!” may be one of the greatest lines from Mel Gibson EVER. Even when I write it, I can’t help but read it, think it, and say it with a Scottish accent. Greatest. Line. Ever.

We love a good story of redemption and freedom. We love the stories of life and liberation. In general, human beings long to be free. We long for that freedom nationally, corporately, together and individually – we treasure and value freedom. July 4th is a day, as Americans, that we celebrate our freedom. We picnic, BBQ, carnival, and firework to celebrate this special day that commemorates our freedom.

We all want to be free. But there is a freedom that restores, encourages, brings unity and creates peace that no war, opinion or division, or fancy Scottish line can give. Actually, the war was already won. The kingdom has already been established. You don’t need to be affiliated with any particular political party, vote, or agree to disagree with any law or amendment. This freedom is life giving and life changing. This kingdom is built on freedom established in love and peace.

The best story of love, redemption, and freedom I ever heard was the one about a cross, crucifixion, and Savior who took the sin of the world to establish a freedom and righteousness with the Creator of the universe that we could not fight and establish on our own. It is not about a kingdom but The Kingdom.

It is difficult in our world of division to remember that this kingdom is not our own. It is difficult to remember that this fight is not ours. It is tiresome to read and see every day the hate and division within our churches, country, and globally. It makes this weary soul even more tired. But then I remember, this is not my kingdom. This is not my home. But while I am here, it is my job to build up, encourage, love, and support in one mind and one spirit unity and peace with all those around me. I cannot change our worldly kingdom, but I can be a Kingdom builder where it matters. There is true freedom.

As you celebrate this 4th of July, remember it is for freedom that Christ set us free. True freedom is love, peace, and unity – a Kingdom undivided. And that freedom can be celebrated by all.

XOXO, Loni