Hello Folks,
     Here in Greeneville, Tn we will celebrate Independence Day on July 4.  This has been a special day for Americans since 1775 and in our community we will have people join family members in cook outs and there will be untold fireworks shot into the air, there will be parades and special events taking place all across our community and our nation.  I for one am thankful for our nation and the freedoms that we celebrate here. 
     In other nations there is great persecution taking place while we celebrate.  In the Sudan Christians are being murdered simply because they are Christians.  Freedom for Christians in many Muslim countries is very limited and they are subject to great persecution.  I pray that we do not take for granted what we have been given but I also pray that we do not forget about people all over our world who have little if any freedom.  Maybe during our celebrations we should pray for others who have not been blessed to live in a country like ours.  While we have many things that could be better we are certainly among the most blessed people in the world.
     But there is one other thing that we ought not to forget.  It is simply that we have been given spiritual freedom through the blood of Jesus Christ.  On that day almost 2000 years ago when Jesus died on Calvary there was a declaration of independence signed in blood by the Creator of the world.  It is not restricted by national boundaries or political parties.  Anyone who will come to Him can receive that freedom.  That is the one truth that we ought to celebrate every day!
     I pray that you have a great week and that the freedom of Christ be in your.


HGRudd