Veteran's Day

Because today is Veteran's Day, and I know you are off from school, I want you to take some time to rest. Enjoy the day. But also today, remember those who have died for our freedom ... for all of the soldiers who have gone to war or are still at war ... who enable us to live in a country where we don't live in extreme poverty ... where we can make our own choices ... where we can worship who and how we want to. If you know a veteran or someone in the military... thank them.

Today I also want you to think about the One who gives freedom to all, not just us here in the U.S.A.

Read this:

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” (John 14:6)

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)

For you, O LORD, have saved my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. (Psalm 116:8)

Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:2)

Think about it:

You've heard it before ... Jesus came to save us from our sins.

But ... have you really thought about this and asked yourself ... what is he really saving us from?

Everyone's first answer is, sin and eternity in hell.

But here's the deal, Christ died so that you and I can live ... live eternally ... live eternally with Him.

And that doesn't just mean when we die and go to heaven ... that means NOW.

He gave up his life so that you and I can have a life that is free from the bondage of sin, which only brings us down and separates us from God.

Sin enslaves us ... binds us to it and says, "I've got you under my control, and I'm in charge now."

But Christ frees us from the burdens of sin and says, "I've got you. I'm with you. Let me lead the way. I'll show you a better way."

So today, remember that Christ died for our freedom as well and he gave the ultimate sacrifice ... he died for us when we didn't deserve it.

And thank goodness he did!

Pray about it: While you're praying, thank God for his grace and mercy that he would send his son to die for us so that we can live now and forever with him. Thank him for all he has blessed you with and also thank him for those who die for our daily freedoms.

Live it: Live with a spirit of thankfulness knowing that you are free from the bondage of sin because of what Jesus did on the cross ... I mean, really, what can beat being free from sin and having God by your side?