“Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” I Peter 2:16 ESV
We started our celebration of Independence Day with an early morning walk through the park. Famous enjoyed the cool breeze on what is forecasted to be a hot day with probable afternoon and evening storms. I enjoyed watching him trotting in the breeze and sniffing the wet grass, although I was eager to get home again for my first cup of coffee. We ran into a young lady who was also taking her dog for a walk. He was a yellow lab, and he was really celebrating his freedom. He was walking without a leash.
I thought to myself how this seemed to be a preferable method. Obviously, he had been well trained and resisted the urge to walk over and say hello to Famous. But I also noted his owner was in violation of a city ordinance, one that states in the city limits a dog must be on leash in public spaces. I said, “Good morning” and kept Famous on the other side of the street. The lab’s owner did not acknowledge me as she was diligently speaking to her pet reminding him of his obedience.
I do think it would be better if all dogs could be trained in such manners. Obviously, most owners would not take the time to be as involved, so leash laws need to be passed. Perhaps it was envy, but I was still annoyed that someone would assume that the law did not apply to her and her pet. I hope he will always be obedient and not be placed in danger around other dogs or traffic.
God grants us freedom knowing it is a good thing for us, but also because we need to work together to help each other. Some of us have more freedoms from disease, from poverty, from mental disease, from demons such as hatred, greed, and lust, than do others. We can share our freedom in Christ to those who are so burdened.
Lead me to celebrate with gratitude the opportunities to live in Christ’s freedom.
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