As fireworks light up the sky and families gather for barbecues and parades, we in our small northeastern Nebraska farming town come together to celebrate the Fourth of July. This day marks the birth of our nation and the freedoms that we hold dear. But beyond the festivities, it’s a time to reflect on the deeper meaning of free dom and its connection to our faith.
The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, proclaimed the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These words, penned by Thomas Jefferson, have resonated through the centuries, reminding us of the core values upon which our nation was founded. Yet, as we celebrate our national freedoms, we must also consider the importance of religious freedom—a cornerstone of our nation’s identity and a vital aspect of our faith.
In Osmond, where the rhythm of life is intertwined with the cycles of planting and harvest, we understand the value of freedom. The freedom to worship according to one’s conscience is a gift that we should never take for granted. Our forefathers fled persecu tion and sought a land where they could practice their faith freely. This pursuit of religious liberty is woven into the fabric of American history and continues to be a beacon of hope for many around the world.
As a Lutheran pastor, I see the profound connection between our nation’s freedom and the freedom we have in Christ. Galatians 5:1 reminds us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” Just as our forefathers sought freedom from oppression, Christ offers us freedom from sin and death. This spiritual freedom is the ultimate expression of God’s love and grace, and it empowers us to live lives of service and compassion.
In our community, this freedom manifests in various ways. We gather for worship without fear of persecution, we engage in acts of service to support our neighbors, and we raise our children with the values of faith, hope, and love. The freedom to live out our faith openly and authentically is a testament to the enduring principles upon which our nation was built.
However, we must remain vigilant. The freedoms we celebrate today were hard-won and must be protected. In a world where religious persecution still exists, we have a responsibility to stand up for those who cannot freely practice their faith. As citizens and as Christians, we are called to advocate for justice and to support the oppressed.
This Fourth of July, as we watch the fireworks and wave our flags, let us remember that true freedom encompasses both our national liberties and our spiritual liberation. Let us give thanks for the blessings we enjoy and commit ourselves to the ongoing pursuit of freedom for all.
May God bless America, and may we always cherish and protect the freedoms that define us, both as a
