From the Pastor's Pencil

In Jesus Christ we have redemption through His blood

                           the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace…”

                                                                                                                  Ephesians 1:7

     This is the time of year that we intentionally celebrate freedom.  We set aside a special day to commemorate our independence as a nation.  Hopefully, we all give thanks to God for the privileges and pleasures that accompany being citizens of the United States of America.  Indeed we should, because those privileges and pleasures are many.  In light of all that has happened since Y2K we should be doubly thankful, taking nothing for granted.

     We must also remember that our independence was gained at great personal cost.  Freedom always has a price tag.  From the very beginning of our nation’s history, men and women have sacrificed a great deal to ensure that liberty would be enjoyed throughout each generation.  One’s pain has been another’s gain.  At this very moment, our sons and daughters in the military are engaged in a war against terrorism; perhaps the most challenging military assignment we have faced as a nation.  Let us thank God for all of those who have endured hardship in order to secure the privileges and pleasures of freedom that we now enjoy.  And let us also be ready to suffer, if need be, that freedom may continue to ring throughout our great land.

     As we reflect upon the blessings of our citizenship on earth, we should also be giving thought to the status of our citizenship in Heaven.  The scripture verse above reminds us that forgiveness of sin is available to us through the blood of Jesus Christ.  Jesus allowed himself to be crucified on a cross in order to pay the penalty of our sins.  The Bible says that if we place our trust in Him we can become children of God and obtain a Heavenly citizenship.  Christ’s pain becomes our gain!

     Have you believed on the Lord Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins?  Today, as you enjoy the blessings of National freedom, why not take advantage of the Spiritual freedom available to us through faith in Christ.

                                                                                               Let Freedom Ring!

                                                                                         Pastor John Friedlund

Meeting at Grace E. C. Church
421 W. Main St.
Kutztown, Pa
Phone: 610-683-3340 mail box #4
johnfriedlund.com