Let Freedom Ring - July 2016

Connie’s Corner

Let Freedom Ring

By Connie Hawkins

The month of July seems to be a time when Americans reflect on freedom.  But, the question I ask myself is, are we going about it the right way?  Do we really know what it means to be free, to have freedom? Do we respect it? Value it?

Our forefathers had a lot to say on the subject of freedom:

“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” George Washington

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction…It must be fought for, protected, and handed on… .” Ronald Reagan 

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others”. Nelson Mandela
“Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.” Pope John Paul II

The Bible tells us that in Christ we have been set free from the slavery of sin and corruption into the freedom of glory as children of God. “For you were called to freedom…do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but to love and serve one another.” Galatians 5:13

This Independence Day let’s remember those who fought and died for our freedom.  Let’s keep freedom alive, protect it, respect it, and honor it. Let’s do what’s right, like Pope John Paul the II said, “Let’s do what we ought to do.” Turn from our sinful ways and love one another. Only then can we really hear freedoms ring.