[320 words]
Inscribed on the Korean War Memorial are the words, “Freedom Is Not Free.” Every time I think of these words I think of two aspects of my freedom.
First, I think of my rights as an American citizen. It is a great blessing to live in a country where I have so many freedoms to function and live without the government’s interference. Yet I am reminded by the words, “Freedom Is Not Free,” that precious people gave up their families, jobs, their own freedom, and even their lives so that I could be free to enjoy this country in which I live.
Second, the words “Freedom Is Not Free,” remind me of the freedom I have in Christ (1 Peter 2:16). Again, I am free (spiritually) because God the Father loved the world so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die for me and all mankind (John 3:16). Jesus gave up the riches of Heaven for the pain and suffering of this earth so that I could have freedom from this sinful world.
With these two thoughts, how humbling it is to know that I live physically and spiritually because someone died for me. This is such a humbling thought that I do not know what to say except, “Thank you,” and that is not enough.
“Thank you,” to all the men and women who have served and are serving in the military willing to die for my freedom. “Thank you,” to all the men and women who died both at home and abroad to remind me that my physical freedom was not and is not free. Most of all, “Thank You, Jesus,” who paid a debt you did not owe and a debt that I could never pay. Thank You, Jesus, for dying upon a cruel cross so that all who will take your gift can be free from sin and live for eternity.
Mark T. Tonkery
Norval Park church of Christ
Zanesville, OH