Phillipians 2:6-8 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Last night we took part in the Independence Day celebration in Israel — whew! What a party — shows, fireworks, music, dancing, and everything else under the sun! But interestingly, the day before was a very solemn one. It was a day to remember all the soldiers who died protecting the cause of Israel’s birth and statehood. All the major television stations stopped airing for twenty-four hours in honor of these men and women. At different times during the day, long loud sirens rang all over the Land. Israelis stopped whatever they were doing — I’m talking about even standing still on the highways, to stop and remember them! The dedication and camaraderie among Israelis is just powerful. I have been many places and I’ve never seen anything like it.
This got me thinking. It is a beautiful thing to remember the price that was paid for our independence before we celebrate it.
Our Lord willingly laid down His life for our freedom. How much more should we take some time out to honor Him today before we celebrate the freedom He has so mercifully bestowed upon us?
These are excellent devotionals concerning Independence.