"I'm a Christian first and a German second." Famous words by the German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Dietrich was a German Christian during the Second World War during the reign of Hitler and his persecution. He spoke against the German government and for Christ. He payed the final price by being hung in 1945.
As we celebrate Independence day in the United States, enjoy the barbecues and the fireworks by all means. But also remember at what price we are allowed to enjoy this. The men and women who died for that right. It's not national barbecue day (though I do enjoy ribs myself). While saying thanks to those who fight for us, remember our higher cause.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and 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 the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV).
236 years ago our forefathers signed a declaration. That declaration declared their independence from an oppressive foreign power. Christians let us declare our independence from the foreign power of the devil and his advocates! Let us cast aside all sin that hinders us and run toward the perfecter of our faith. Our citizenship is in heaven therefore remember that we are Christians first and foremost.
As we celebrate Independence day in the United States, enjoy the barbecues and the fireworks by all means. But also remember at what price we are allowed to enjoy this. The men and women who died for that right. It's not national barbecue day (though I do enjoy ribs myself). While saying thanks to those who fight for us, remember our higher cause.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and 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 the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV).
236 years ago our forefathers signed a declaration. That declaration declared their independence from an oppressive foreign power. Christians let us declare our independence from the foreign power of the devil and his advocates! Let us cast aside all sin that hinders us and run toward the perfecter of our faith. Our citizenship is in heaven therefore remember that we are Christians first and foremost.
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