Called to Freedom, But...

For you are called to freedom brothers; only don't use this freedom as on opportunity for the flesh, but to serve one another in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in one statement: Love your neighbor as yourself. But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another. I say then, walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
Galatians 5:13-16


For those of you who do not live in middle Tennessee, we have recently experienced what is considered a 100 year flood. Thousands have been displaced, historic buildings and sights were submerged, and the waters have left many dead with several still missing. What I have been most impressed with is the response of aid from locals. There are now so many organizations and areas to drop of supplies that there really is no excuse. They're everywhere.

As Christians we jump to our feed and are usually among the first to help, as it should be. So take the opportunity to jump in. Now.... continue to do so. Yes, we are called to freedom, but not for selfish gain or self-righteousness. We are called to freedom to serve one another. Doesn't sound like freedom to you? Try it.

Why is it, I ask even of myself, that we are willing to sacrifice to give of finances, time, and love when there is a natural disaster, when we seldom do the rest of the time? This is what we should be doing everyday. Yes, we step it up a notch when there is an abundant need such as this, but we shouldn't be scrambling for places to serve. We should already know about them because we have at least one foot in the door somewhere.

I realize suffering brings something out in us that fuels the desire to give, but we need to realize the greatest "natural disaster" of all is the effects of sin. If we want to help save flood victims, we need to float them over to Jesus Christ. He's the only dry land many will know. Are you worried about the hungry? Jesus is the ultimate bread of life. For those who lack clothing, He will dress them in white robes of righteousness. If they need shelter, He will tuck them safely under His wing. There is nothing that the needy need more than Christ Jesus. And that need is always there.

I truly believe that part of the reason I flesh gets in the way so that we start devouring one another is because we get bored when not serving. We will walk in one way or another: Christian or the World.

How is your walk today?