What does it mean to be free? Can you even be free?
We use the word free a lot. Sometimes it means no value–this product is free. Sometimes it has high value–free from political or religious oppression. Sometimes it means free from restraint–I should be able to do what I want.
This last one is tricky. Perhaps what you want isn’t a free choice. Perhaps you are controlled by inner desires and you only think you’re free to choose to go to the bar, but you’re really driven by a craving for alcohol or adventure or hopes of sex.
I’ve studied this concept for years. Still trying to figure it out. But I just saw a quote from a man in China, “You Westerners confuse freedom and irresponsibility.”
Wow, does that ever describe much of our culture. I hear lots of talk about “rights” but little (or no) talk about responsibility.
Paul wrote a lot about freedom. See especially his letter to Galatia. Paul was worried about this very thing. If Jesus died to absolve us from our sins, does it leave us free (that word again) to do whatever we want? Well, no. Jesus expects us to live a responsible life.
Because we are free (that is released from the oppression) of sin, we are free to actively live with God. And to do that will involve being responsible. God does not enslave us by piling up regulations, laws and religious rites. No, people do that thinking that they are guiding others to God.
In reality, because we have freedom by living a life intimate with the source of all creation, we are free to live a responsible life content in the fruits of the spirit. It’s a much happier and more fulfilling life than one of irresponsibility trying to “do my own thing.” Don’t get seduced by that phrase. Real freedom is union with God. And thanks to Jesus for showing the way.
Faith Venture 
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