Community Corner
Stars, Stripes and the Cross: Symbols of Freedom
Take some time this month and celebrate the freedoms we have in this country. When you see the stars and stripes, say a prayer for the men and women who are fighting for those freedoms.
Because it’s July, we’ve been seeing a lot of stars and stripes, reminding us of the good ol’ USA.
Stars and stripes have become a symbol of freedom for us. When I see them, I want to stop in my tracks, put my hand over my heart, and sing a chorus of “God bless America!”
I recently came across a postcard I had gotten from the Salvation Army back in 2002, thanking me for the time I volunteered in the serving tent down by Ground Zero. Even reading the postcard brought me to tears, remembering not only the horrible things I saw, but the amazing way people from all over the country were pulling together to support each other. I have always been very patriotic, but since 9/11, that burden is even heavier on my heart. I can honestly say that I am proud to be an American.
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As Christians, we also have a symbol of our freedom in Christ. That symbol is the cross, which is a visible reminder of what Jesus did to provide us with that freedom. He sacrificed Himself willingly, taking upon Himself the sins of the world. (“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Corinthians 5:21)
The cross reminds us of the Good News of the Gospel; that Jesus was born, died, was buried, and rose again on the third day. And because He lives, we live too! We are no longer bound by sin and death, because Jesus is the Conqueror.
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When I see the cross, I see freedom. When I see the cross, I see hope. When I see the cross, I see life. But most of all, I see Jesus. I can honestly say, I am proud to be a Christian.
Take some time this month and celebrate the freedoms we have in this country. When you see the stars and stripes, say a prayer for the men and women who are fighting for those freedoms.
But don’t stop there.
When you see the cross, say a prayer and an even bigger “thank you” to the Lord for what He has done for you. He has given those who call upon His name eternal life, freedom from eternal damnation. It just doesn’t get any better than that!
“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13
