Freedom in Christ
By Karen D’Amore
“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
Galatians 5:13 (NASB)
His jet black eyes remained fixed on me, watching my every move. Cradling him as I offered food with my free hand, he trustingly retrieved the food. Thus began my relationship with an orphaned baby crow. The unconventional bond was immediate and mutual. My attachment grew stronger as I cared for him weekly at the wildlife rescue center. His clinging to his caregivers inherited him the name “Mr. Friendly.” Upon joining the adult crows in the outdoor enclosure, he connected affectionately with an amputee crow named “Lefty.” A permanent resident at the center, Lefty’s disabilities prevent him from ever being released back into the wild. For months, Mr. Friendly tenderly groomed Lefty, offered him food and protected him from bullying crows.By Karen D’Amore
“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
Galatians 5:13 (NASB)
But then that bittersweet day arrived when Mr. Friendly was ready for release. It was time for him to be set free and live as he was created to live. Many of his caregivers gathered around to witness the ceremonial release. Soaring high to the nearest treetop he cawed with delight. After exploring several neighboring trees, the unexpected happened. Mr. Friendly returned to the rooftop of the enclosure from which he had been set free. Perching himself above Lefty, he refused to leave his side.
It’s been six weeks since Mr. Friendly’s release and he still refuses to go free. Gathering twigs, berries, seeds and nuts, he drops them through the wire cage for Lefty. He has the freedom to roam and fly anywhere he chooses, but out of his affection for Lefty, he forfeits that freedom and lovingly sticks by Lefty’s side.
What a precious example for us to emulate! True happiness is found in serving God and serving others, not in serving ourselves. As Christ-followers, we have been set free. This freedom is not an excuse to become lawless and self-indulgent, but rather to experience freedom that calls us to love. The freedom Christ brings is a freedom with only one law…the Law of Love: to love Him and to love one another as Christ loved us.
Rice Broocks writes, “Freedom is not the ability to do whatever you want to do. It is the power to do what you ought to do!” Our freedom wasn’t free. It was purchased at a very high price. Remember, Jesus died so that you and I could be free! What will we do with that freedom? Is there a Lefty in your life who needs you to stick lovingly by her side?
GOING DEEPER:
1. Our freedom in Christ is a privilege that carries responsibilities. How can you respond more responsibly to that freedom?
FURTHER READING:
Galatians 5:1; Romans 14:17; 1 Peter 2:16
Married to husband Dan, Karen is the Salon Coordinator for Intrigue Salon & Spa, the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and a volunteer at the Wildlife In Need Center.
