As we approach the Fourth of July, a day that symbolizes freedom and independence, it's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the deeper meaning of these words from a spiritual perspective.

The Bible offers us profound insights into the concept of freedom. Galatians 5:1 reminds us, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." This verse emphasizes the spiritual freedom found in Christ and encourages us to cherish and protect it.

John 8:36 tells us, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." This highlights the complete and true freedom that comes from Christ alone. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 3:17 states, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." This verse speaks to the presence of God, bringing freedom to our lives.

Romans 8:21 reflects the ultimate freedom that believers will experience in God's kingdom: "That the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God." And Psalm 119:45 connects obedience to God's word with the experience of freedom: "I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts."

These verses remind us that true freedom is found in a relationship with Jesus, surpassing all earthly liberties. Our national identity and spiritual freedom can complement each other when rooted in biblical values. Independence Day offers us an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate both physical and spiritual freedoms. The practical applications of Jesus’ teachings can enhance our celebration of national freedom.

As we celebrate this Fourth of July, let's remember to cherish and protect the spiritual freedom we have in Christ. Let's stand firm in our faith, walk in freedom, and celebrate the liberty we have been given.

Wishing you a blessed and meaningful Fourth of July.

Join us Sundays at 10am for Worship in the Sanctuary, or watch the service live streamed on our Youtube channel. 

Click here to visit our Youtube Channel

Join us in the lobby and Conrad room for fellowship, mingling and welcoming our new Pastor, Eilidh Lowery! 

Please bring your favorite ice cream topping to share. We can't wait to see you there!

Week 1

• Get rid of unwanted junk mail. Register to receive less at dmachoice.org, optoutprescreen.com and catalogchoice.org.
• Refuse: things you don’t really need like freebies at conferences, parties or the dentist office. Refuse plastic and buy items in glass, metal or cardboard.

Week 2

• Bring your own: coffee cup, water bottle, take out container, grocery and produce bags, reusable cultery and stainless steel straws to cut down on waste.
• Go reusable: ditch paper towels for cloth rags, switch out paper plates and napkins for reusable ones and handkerchiefs instead of tissues.

Week 3

• Buy in bulk: bring your own containers, tare them at the service desk and fill them up in the bulk section at the grocery store to avoid unnecessary packaging.
• Buy used or second hand items at thrift stores or consignment stores. Find local buy/sell/trade groups like the Facebook group Buy Nothing, Give and Take or Freecycle.com.

Week 4

• Compost: find a compost system that works in your home or sign up for a compost service.
• Plan your meals to avoid unnecessary purchases at the store and food waste.
• Move toward a plant based diet- you can find most produce with out packaging at grocery stores.

Bonus Action: Introduce your work or church to the zero waste lifestyle!

Join us for our annual Labor Day Family Camp at Ocean Park Camp & Retreat Center! 

This year, we'll be at camp from Friday August 29th through Monday September 1st.

More details coming soon!