Independence Day!

As the 4th of July is celebrated we think of all the gatherings that will be taking place, family and friends coming together. The food that will be consumed and the brightness of the fireworks that will light up the dark sky. It is a day to let our patriotism shine forth and to be thankful for all the gifts that God has given to us and our country. Looking through the Magnificat magazine, I found another great word that we can think about on this day because it goes along with independence and that is "Freedom." As we read in
I Peter 2:16- "Be free, yet without using freedom as a pretext for evil, but as slaves of God." The commentator goes on to write: "According to the Gospel, freedom is not achievement but gift. Freedom is not license but radical obedience to God's liberating law of love. Let us give thanks for the gifts of freedom we have received and, trusting in God as did our nation's founders, let us seek to share them as gifts with all who are still enslaved by political oppression, social or economic injustice, or personal sin" (Magnificat, 75). I remember a priest telling me as a young associate pastor when I felt that I needed to stay and work because of obligation and duty, "Be Free!" Yes, we must do our work, but not let it consume us. We need to take time for ourselves because that is also a gift from God. Freedom is a great gift. We have received all of our gifts from God and we need to be thankful. In the midst of all the social things going on this day, let us not forget why we are here and let us always be thankful. It is God's great love and mercy that makes all things possible! Have a blessed day!!!