Stand Free

Stand Free

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.

Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again

by a yoke of slavery.”

Galatians 5 vs. 1 

            You that know me probably have heard my definition of retirement; having four days a week without a calendar commitment and a long to-do list with the opportunity to choose. That is the definition of freedom and the way Christ would want us to live. Unfortunately, few careers offer that kind of flexibility, and most families today have two jobs working to clutter up their calendars.           

            The new normal economy and the financial status of the American family do not always allow freedom. It is easy to get caught up in the pursuit of becoming an average family or average Joe. It takes a certain amount of control to take a deep breath and step out of line to seek peace. The “…yoke of slavery...” has become habitual, and many feel uncomfortable when they have free time. We need to evaluate that, each on our terms. 

            We can experience freedom through meditation and prayer. It takes a few minutes to unwind when we focus on being at peace. My old standard of balance, the YMCA triangle of Spirit, Mind, and Body, is a model we need to keep in our lives. We must stop, look, and listen to Christ, be at peace, and be the best we can be. 

 Thought for Today: Let’s evaluate our “yoke of slavery” to determine what is necessary and what is not. Let’s accept the guidance from Christ and take one step closer to being free. 

Prayer for Today: Dear Lord and Father, we pray for a light at the end of our tunnel.

Amen