Today is the fourth of July. Everywhere in the world, it’s the fourth of July.
In the United States of America, however, it’s a special one. It’s the Fourth of July, a national holiday, officially known as Independence Day. It’s the day we celebrate our freedom as a country.
Freedom is important to Jesus too.
Once, when teaching at the synagogue, he read from the book of Isaiah. Isaiah proclaims freedom for the captives, the nation of Israel (Isaiah 61:1).
Jesus reads that text and says he fulfills it (Luke 4:16-20). But the captives he proclaims freedom to are not just Israel but everyone. That includes you and me.
Though it took a war for the United States to find freedom, freedom through Jesus is much easier, we just need to believe and follow him.
That’s real freedom!
Read more about the book of Isaiah in For Unto Us: 40 Prophetic Insights About Jesus, Justice, and Gentiles from the Prophet Isaiah available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover.
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.