True Freedom: How Jesus’ Ultimate Sacrifice Redefines Independence

 “But all this has taken place to fulfill the Scriptures of the prophets.” 

Matthew 26:56a

Dear Friends,

This past weekend, many in our country celebrated a cherished national holiday—the Fourth of July. On this day in 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally proclaiming the original thirteen colonies independent from Great Britain. Since that moment, our nation has deeply valued, celebrated, and fought for freedom on many fronts.

When Freedom Becomes Selfish

This ideal holds great merit—but at times, it can also lead us astray.

From the very beginning of our nation’s founding, Americans have held fast to the belief that all people are entitled to certain unalienable rights. According to the Declaration of Independence, these include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And because we believe in these rights, our country has always stood ready to defend them.

But in today’s world, where “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” is often interpreted as getting whatever you want, whenever you want it, we now live in a fractured nation, plagued by division and discord. Human selfishness takes over, and one person’s freedom can come at the expense of another’s sacrifice.

Citizens of a Higher Kingdom

Yet for those who belong to God’s Kingdom, the framework is very different. We are not citizens of a democracy but of a monarchy—where God is King and His will is supreme. In His Kingdom, we do things His way and in His time. God’s sovereign plan cannot be thwarted, no matter the opposition. And in this spiritual battle, worldly weapons are useless.

A Dark Night in Gethsemane

This was never more evident than on a dark night in the Garden of Gethsemane.

After warning His disciples of His impending betrayal, Jesus led them to a familiar place: the Garden of Gethsemane. Suddenly, a group of armed men, led by Judas—one of His own—arrived to arrest Him. Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, the prearranged sign of betrayal.

A Fight That Never Happened

In the shock and confusion, one of the remaining disciples drew his sword, ready to fight for what he thought was a just cause. In a moment of impulsive defense, he slashed off the ear of the high priest’s servant.

But instead of commending the disciple’s zeal, Jesus immediately intervened. He told him to put away his sword. There would be no fight that night. The battle would not be won by violence.

Jesus’ Ultimate Sacrifice for True Freedom

God had a plan, and Jesus was fully committed to fulfilling it, no matter the cost.

Though He could have summoned more than twelve legions of angels to rescue Him, Jesus chose to surrender. He gave up His rights, allowing Himself to be handed over to sinful men who would mock, beat, and crucify Him like a criminal.

Why?

Because in giving up His freedom, Jesus secured true and eternal freedom—freedom from sin—for us.

Living Sacrifices: Our Response to Christ’s Freedom

As Americans, we deeply value our freedoms. But as citizens of Heaven, we are called to something greater. Romans 12:1 reminds us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God—this is our true and proper worship.

Our obedience, even when it costs us our “inalienable rights” proves the will of God: good, pleasing, and perfect.

The Greatest Declaration of Independence

Praise God for His plan of redemption! Through the perfect obedience of His Son, He issued the greatest Declaration of Independence ever written: freedom from sin and peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Love,

Mama