Freedom in Jesus and the 4th of July

Hey, carpool crew. Happy 4th of July. I'm Pastor Justin, and I'm so glad you're here today. It is the 4th of July. That means red, white, and blue everywhere. Popsicles, parades, maybe even sparklers if your parents say yes. But did you know this day isn't just about freedom in our country in America. It's a great time to remember the freedom we have in Jesus. Let's check out Galatians chapter five, verse 13. For you we're called to be free, brothers and sisters, only don't use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love. This letter was written by Paul, one of the first Christian missionaries. He was writing to a group of believers in a place called Galatia, helping them understand what it means to live in freedom through Jesus. Back then people thought they had to follow tons of religious rules to be close to God. But Paul was saying Jesus has set you free not to do whatever you want, but to love well and live like him. And that message still is true today. On July 4th we celebrate the freedom we have as a country here in America, but if you follow Jesus, you also have a different kind of freedom. Freedom from fear, sin, shame, and that freedom isn't just about you. It's a chance to serve others through love. If Jesus were sitting right next to you during the firework show tonight, I'd think he'd lean over and say, hey, you're not just free in this country. You are free in your life. Free to love others, free to serve others, and free to make a difference. Jesus didn't just give us freedom so we could be comfy and relax all the time. He gave us freedom so we could be bold, kind and full of love for others. The best kind of freedom, it leads to serving, not just celebrating. So how can you live out this truth on the 4th of July and beyond? Well, let's say you're at a barbecue. Offer to help clean up, serve someone a drink, share the last cookie without a fight. That's real freedom in action. With your neighbors, say happy fourth with a smile. Invite someone new in the neighborhood to play and be the kind of friend who includes everyone. Don't exclude anyone in your heart. Take a moment today to thank God for the freedoms you have, not just here in America, but in your soul because of Jesus. Fireworks are awesome, but loving like Jesus, that's what really lights things up. Remember, no matter where you are or how you're listening, God loves you. Parents, if you love this podcast, share it with some of your neighbors or other parents you see at fireworks tonight, or share it with a kid's pastor or some of the volunteers at your church this weekend, so other people can encourage their families through great conversation. Before you go answer this question together, what's one way you can use your freedom this weekend to serve someone around you? Just like Jesus. I can't wait to see you next week on carpooling with Jesus.