In the US’s Declaration of Independence in 1776, our right to be free is the basis to separate from the British Empire. Much of our thinking and many of our actions today are built on and influenced by this right-to-be-free “Independent” mindset. Many came to the US to gain freedom – to express, create, communicate, excel in, and practice our gifts. Our workplace and community encourage us to practice our freedoms, exude “my rights” and subscribe to worker rights, and carry out our individual rights to freely share our opinions – to like or dislike – on social media. In fact, social media companies encourage us to freely share our thoughts and opinions – especially something provocative and personal stories to gain followers – to increase use of companies’ platforms for financial gain and market share. As we grow wiser, we may regret posting some items that we wish we didn’t, but it’s too late to retract our posts from the internet.

With the recent US Supreme Court decisions on many issues that divide the communities in which we live, there are even more reasons than ever to divide us. It is important to remind ourselves that world values will divide us, but Christ’s intent is to unite and empower us to fulfill the Great Commission.
During his suffering, Job, who was considered blameless, had lost all hope. He questioned God’s presence. When God responded, “Tell me if you understand…?” (Job 38:4) and pointed out the beautiful things we take for granted – the weather, mountains, nature and their dynamic interactions, etc. – Job finally understood God’s presence in his life regardless of circumstances.

Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:12 said, “’I have the right to do anything,’” you say—but not everything is beneficial…” Rather, we should leverage our rights to collectively serve in the ECC community based on the principle of plant --> water --> grow. “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6).

Have a wonderful July 4th; May God bless you continuously with joy in serving together through the power of the Holy Spirit.