Let His Freedom Ring

And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.
And I’d gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land; God bless the U.S.A.

Lee Greenwood, “Proud To Be An American”

If you started singing the Lee Greenwood lyrics aloud, that is understandable. Songs like “Proud To Be An American” are part of the intricately woven fabric that encompasses our 4th of July celebrations. After all, what is Independence Day without parades, watermelon, fireworks, and music that moves the soul? It is not nearly as fun a celebration without those things—but let us remember that it ultimately has nothing to do with those things.

The 4th of July is the day we celebrate living in freedom and teach the history of our nation to younger generations, passing on a legacy unlike any other. As Americans, we are thankful for, proud of, and humbled by the countless lives sacrificed for us and count ourselves blessed to be born in a country where we have individual liberties. When we salute the flag, we declare that we “pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

On the verge of celebrating the birth of our nation, many are watching her change at a rapid pace and wondering if our founding fathers would even recognize The United States of America as she stands today. Whether or not you find yourself on the offense or defense, we must remember that this nation is part of a fallen world and this world is not our home (1 Peter 2:11). Let us be careful so as to not idolize and worship a land, but to worship the God who created this land. When we salute the flag, let us recognize that the flag is a humble reflection of what true freedom costs, and remember the One who sacrificed His life for all nations.

On Saturday, red, white, and blue will cover the landscape, and the day will culminate with beautiful colors bursting in air. Our hearts will sing in unison and reflect on the many blessings we have as Americans. On Sunday, many families will attend worship services where a number of sermons will surely be given on the topic of freedom. In children’s classes, kids will likely color pictures of flags and talk about the fun they had the day before. Our proclamation as parents and churches, however, should be to teach our children that—while we love this great country—we only worship and praise our great, sovereign God who created her. When we talk about freedom, let us focus our efforts on teaching that true freedom is found only in the cross of Christ, and He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

I am so thankful to the Lord for this nation and the many lives which were sacrificed on her behalf. America came at a great cost, and that is not something to take lightly. If only all nations could see that there is One life shed for us all, and He alone offers a freedom no country can ever provide. Thank You, Lord, for the cross and thank You that You do not want anyone to perish, but all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

John 8:36

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians 3:20

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

2 Corinthians 3:17

Let His Freedom Ring!

Gabbie

Author

  • Gabbie Nolen-Fratantoni

    Gabbie Nolen-Fratantoni loves Jesus and is passionate about serving him through the arts by leading worship and writing for various ministries. She is married to Greg, her hard-working, iron-sharpening-iron spouse. They are opposite in personality but equal in dedication to their marriage and family. Gabbie and Greg are the proud and sleep-deprived parents of two active, sweet, and fun boys and one gentle, joy-filled, little girl. An Aggie and graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, Gabbie is a small-town country girl trapped in the city. She loves getting to know people and encouraging them as they seek to know Jesus and make him known.

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