We have no good apart from God. That makes Jesus’ call to follow him an invitation to freedom. As we approach Independence Day in the United States, we are mindful that the freedom Jesus offers is different than that of our country. This freedom invites us to revel in the Spirit’s fruit: love, joy, peace, and patience. This is freedom to not be imprisoned by anything that would keep us from the fullness of the life God has given us. This is the path of life. Paul spells out the mission before us. He explains that with the Spirit of God within, our lives should be different. He contrasts the work of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. We are called to use our freedom in Christ for good, so that God can transform our lives and empower us for ministry. In the gospel, Jesus makes it clear that answering his call and living the life of discipleship requires no less than everything. Join us as Bishop Sue Briner preaches and invites us to live fully into this freedom we have in Christ!
image: Two disciples ask Christ “Where do you live?” (mosaic), Sanctuary of Saint Pio de Pietrelchina, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy. Photo by RealyEasyStar/Claudio Pagliarani. Copyright © 2024 Alamy Stock Photo. Used by permission.