Freedom

We are all looking for FREEDOM.

So often we search for it outside of ourselves.  Some look for it in their family or friends;  some look for it in their careers;  some through their wanderlust as they travel the globe;  some in sports achievements and accolades;  and some in their leaders (as we see in so many countries in the world).

True FREEDOM, however, comes from within.  It can only be experienced in our hearts as we face our fears, forgive those who have hurt us and leave the past behind us.

Jesus taught that we should bless those who hurt us and pray for those who hate us.  He showed us by example.  When He hung on the cross, He prayed for those who had Him crucified  “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” ” Luke 23:34 (New International Version)

If ever there was an example of one who understood this, it was Nelson Mandela.  If ever there was “A Long Walk to Freedom”, it was his story. He embraced it and became one of the greatest statesmen of our time.  We can all heed his words:

“As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.”  Nelson Mandela

FREEDOM – it was such a longing in my heart, it was God’s promise for me.  It seemed so hard to attain, to just step past the curtain of fear and step into freedom. The road has been long, but it has been so worthwhile.  When we let go of the past, we find out what it means to be free and we can  truly be ourselves.

Galatians 5:1  “Christ has set us free to live a free life.” (The Message Bible)