Land of the free, home of the brave. From sea to shining sea. American pride and patriotism swell as we celebrate the founding of our country on July 4th. From the youngest to the oldest, Americans dress in red, white, and blue as they observe our national holiday every summer. We greet each other with “Happy 4th of July!” as we celebrate our freedom and remember those who fought for it.

Last summer, our grandchildren came to visit us and participate in our small town parade. They helped decorate the float, and donned patriotic hats, necklaces, and sunglasses. During the parade they threw candy to the bystanders as they called out “Happy 4th of July!” Afterward, we grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Everyone enjoyed the gift of freedom with family and friends.

Later I wondered, what if we celebrated our freedom in Christ the same way?

One of the first songs my grandchildren learned was “Jesus Loves Me”. Easy to learn and easy to sing. Do they know what the song means? Do they know the depth of Jesus’ love? That’s where grandparents can make a difference. 

Jesus loves us unconditionally with His amazing grace. We, as grandparents, can live in that grace and share that love with our grandchildren. 

As Paul wrote to the Galatians: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by the yoke of slavery,” (Galatians 5:1).

What if:

… we lived every day in a way that exemplified freedom through faith in Christ? 

… we surrendered our anxieties to the Lord? 

… we trusted God’s love and provision to meet our every need? 

Unfortunately, we were born into a broken world. We know our eternal freedom comes by grace through faith in Christ, the only one who is worthy to offer such a gift to mankind.

Lord God, Heavenly Father, I pray that my grandchildren will feel your presence and abide in your love. It is only through your love that they will know perfect freedom. Amen

Remember: Grandparents’ Day of Prayer on September 11. For more information, visit  Grandparents Day of Prayer – Christian Grandparenting Network.