The responsibility of freedom

Our friend and mentor, Mike, had some awesome thoughts on his blog this morning regarding our freedom and the stewardship of its blessings. Check it out (I've highlighted the parts that really spoke to me):

Do you realize that tens of thousands of Christians are killed every year…simply because they are Christians? Did you know that more people were killed for their faith in the 20th century than in the previous 19 centuries combined?

It's easy to forget this truth in America. Everyday, we enjoy freedoms that are inconceivable to many believers around the world. We can claim the name of Christ without fearing for our lives. We can gather to worship in plain view instead of meeting in secret.

As Christ-followers in America, this should prompt us to do several things…
1. Thank God. We are blessed beyond measure, and we don't thank Him enough for that.
2. Use our freedom to advance the cause of Christ. Too often our enormous freedom breeds apathy instead of action.
3. Thank the men and women who have served our country to ensure that we continue to enjoy these freedoms. In honor of Veteran's Day and in gratitude for everything they have given us…find a veteran today and say, "thank you."

The American church is in a unique position in the world. We have more money, more resources, and more freedom than any other believers on this planet. That should cause us to live with immense gratitude and and intense urgency.

Considering how I can use my freedom to advance the cause of Christ today...

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