Emancipation Proclamation

Emancipation Proclamation

Emancipation Proclamation, edict issued by U.S. Pres. Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, that freed the slaves of the Confederate states in rebellion against the Union. It took more than two years for news of the proclamation to reach the slaves in the distant state of Texas. The arrival of the news on June 19 (of 1865) is now celebrated as a national holiday—Juneteenth or Emancipation Day. (britannica.com.)

When I think about freedom, I think about Paul’s letter to the church in Galatia. He said, “for you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: love your neighbor as yourself. But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.” Galatians 5:13-15.

We’re not only called to serve God, but to exemplify his love before others. Freedom has always come with a cost, the greatest of those being the cross of Christ. May we embody our God-given freedom and see humanity with eyes of love.

Blessings my friends.
Pastor Steve.