Can you feel it? The excitement, the stress, the heat! July is NOW! This month is cram packed with opportunities to serve, a special holiday, and plenty of reasons to head to the nearest water hole.
Typically, when we think of July our thoughts go directly to potassium chlorates, rocket propellants, and oxidation. Ok, I'll be honest, only pyromaniacs think of those things but I'm trying to appeal to a large audience here. Most of us, however, think of family, fun in the sun, and occasionally some fireworks. Those things are great, no doubt, but they are only so because of one very special ingredient. If I had to sum this month (especially the fourth day of it) and this newsletter up in one word, it would be FREEDOM. Watch the nightly news and see how much we take it for granted today. Do you ever ask yourself this question, "Why do we have it so good?" In answer, let's go back to the year 1776.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
John Hancock
I am rather sure, due to the scholarly nature of this particular congregation that you realize what was just read is the last paragraph of the Declaration of Independence. That entire document, especially the portion printed above, answers the question asked earlier. But moving on, one must remember that for the Christian a much greater freedom has been granted us.
Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.
By definition, a Christian is one who has been made free by accepting Christ's sacrifice. This does not mean that Christians are free to do as we please but that we are free of the laws of old which were binding of the Jews. Because of God's grace, He made the way of salvation available for Jews and Gentiles alike through Christ. This leads, and logically so, to the question, "What have I been freed from?" The answer is sin and death (Romans 6:17-18; 8:12).
As you celebrate with Americans' everywhere the freedom we have as a nation, don't forget to mention the freedom you have in Christ. Jesus paid a great price for it (1 Cor. 7:22, 23) and when we share His word with others and help them abide in them as we have, it is that truth which sets them free for an eternity (John 8:32). This July be thankful for this country's founding fathers but be most thankful for your relationship with the Heavenly Father and make a declaration of your own.
We, the representatives of Solid Rock Christian Church, in general congregation, assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the trusting of our souls, do, in His name, and by His grace, solemnly publish and declare, That this body of believers, and of right ought to be free, that we are absolved from all allegiance to this world, and that any connection between us and Satan ought to be totally dissolved; and as a free and independent congregation, we have full power to levy war against the evil one, conclude joy, love our neighbor, establish fellowship, and to do all other acts and things which Christians may of right do. – And for the support of this declaration, with firm reliance on the truth of God's word, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our love.
July 2006 Bits of News
Additions to the Family of God: Jacob Gleason was baptized by Zach Gibson at the camp on June 19! Praise God!
We would like to welcome Mike & Chris (Scantlin) Hanson and baby daughter Mallory to our family. They came forward on June 25 as baptized believers to join in the fellowship at Solid Rock.
Ladies, if you have signed up for the Secret Destination on July 22, you will need to have your money for tickets to Debbie no later than Sunday, July 9. Reservations will need to be made on July 10. Remember, you will need $5.00 for the van ride and money to eat one meal out.