Our Independence in Christ

With Independence Day approaching, our minds tend to consider our freedom as Americans. We think about those who have come before us, and led the way in making our country free. We think about those who are currently serving our country to continue allowing us the freedoms and privileges that we have. As Christians, let us turn our minds in the same way to our faith in Christ.  In Hebrews, the author speaks on this very subject: 

Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for he joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Our ultimate example when thinking about our freedom in Christ, is Christ himself.  He took our sin upon him, and died on the cross, and rose again so that we may have the freedom that we do in Christ.  He truly is the perfecter of our faith, as He completed the work of salvation on the cross.  Flipping back to Hebrews 11, the author also encourages believers in their faith by looking back at some of those people that he describes as “a cloud of witnesses” in chapter 12.  Chapter 11 is often referred to as the “Hall of Faith”, and contains many examples of those who we can recall when reflecting on our freedom in Christ. From Abel to Abraham, the author tells us of many believers who have shown the way that we are commanded to live in Christ.  

As you think through this passage, think about others in your own life who have influenced your faith in Christ.  Great examples of the Christian faith often encourage  believers to be faithful to Christ, especially during hard times. May we strive to reflect on our own lives, and think of how we can strength our faith, so that one day, others will think on our faith in Christ, and feel encouraged as well.