Maybe you’re old enough to remember the release of ID4, or, Independence Day in theaters on July 2nd, 1996. I was in a theater that week to see the latest effects-laden offering from Hollywood and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a blockbuster, with aliens, special effects, a plot to destroy the world, and a plucky band of adventurers who thwarted the aliens’ plans. Anyone who was looking for a movie about American independence from Britain in 1776 would have come away sorely displeased.
That’s how it is with sin, when you get right down to it. Sure it looks flashy and fun on the outside, and gives all kind of promises about taking your troubles all away, but in the end, you did not get what you expected. In fact, you will be a lot worse off that you were before.
That’s why when you seek your independence from sinful habits and desires, you don’t turn to other sins to take them away. That just makes it worse. Instead, you turn to the only one who can truly give you independence from sin, the Son of God.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luk 4:18-19)
This is the year of the Lord’s favor! This is the year you can decide to shed your life of sin and give your life to Christ! For we can never be truly free of our own sins until we give our lives over to the One who made us.
Following Christ is simple, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, repent of your sins, confess His Name, be baptized, and live for Christ. It’s a simple process, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t take that offer. The choice is yours. Continue walking down the wide road that leads to destruction, or accept Jesus, and live your life in freedom. Now that’s Independence Day!
Meritt Musings 