Free at last for some! Good news for Aung San Suu Kyi in Burma and Paul and Rachel Chandler in Somalia. Eager reporters were anxious to find out how they were feeling after their different ordeals. But there is more to freedom than feelings. Freedom is a complex and precious quality, and we all crave more of it.
The French philosopher, Jean Jacques Rousseau, wrote, 'Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains'. It is easier to identify the chains than it is to define what freedom is in abstract. Freedom from this, that or the other is understandable, but what sort of freedom do we seek?
Jesus spoke about slavery and freedom, and made some startling statements. "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8.32) and then, "So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free." (John 8.36)
All of us were made to be in relationship with the God who made us, and who loves us. Only this God, in Jesus, can set us free from the assorted addictions and slaveries which trap us - whether it is an obsession about money and possessions, career and self-improvement. To be a slave of Jesus Christ is to be truly free. We can celebrate today, "Free at last!".
Best wishes,
Richard
Even ignoring the numerous references to owning slaves being ok in the old testament, the bible still seems to send out mixed messages on slavery:
ReplyDeleteSlaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. (Ephesians 6:5)
Christians who are slaves should give their masters full respect so that the name of God and his teaching will not be shamed. If your master is a Christian, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. You should work all the harder because you are helping another believer by your efforts. Teach these truths, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. (1 Timothy 6:1-2)
The servant will be severely punished, for though he knew his duty, he refused to do it. "But people who are not aware that they are doing wrong will be punished only lightly. Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given." (Luke 12:47-48)