Godly Freedom

Somehow Canada Day rarely seems to be celebrated with the same enthusiasm that we see on the 4th of July south of the border. But for a number of years at my parents’ cottage, I have seen a flotilla of boats proudly waving Canadian flags and making their way in procession along the lake. For at least one day of the year it is good to reflect on the blessings of being Canadian, one of which is the freedom we have to worship and praise God.

Freedom is a precious gift and the challenge each day is found in the question of what we do with our freedom. Shall we use it to pursue selfish ends or to become a conduit of God’s blessing in the world? Where we use our freedom to say yes to the work of God’s spirit in and through us, our experience is of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

I’m thankful to live in a country where exercising my freedom to say yes to God does not put me in jeopardy with the secular authorities. Today I pray for Christians facing persecution in far-flung corners of the world even as I sing, “God keep our land glorious and free.”

Lord, help me to exercise my freedom today in ways that bring blessing. Amen. — CN