Independence Day

Hello All,

Today is the day I commemorate the independence of my country, Malaysia.

But what does the word, ‘independence’ mean to you? What is true freedom? Do you long for it?

Independence Day

By Joanne Liaw Sook Ling (16 June 2016)

“Merdeka! Merdeka!” was freedom’s cry

Triumphant shouts were raised high to the sky

This momentous day, no one could deny

An enacted freedom, none could defy

We live in a world that longs for freedom

Freedom from crooked and corrupt systems

Freedom from ruthless, repressive kingdoms

Freedom from oppressive despotism

We are citizens who long to be free

Free from the fetters of authority

Free from the shackles of society

Free from the burdens of uncertainty

True freedom seems like an elusive dream

We see evil men escape with their schemes

In anguish, we let out a silent scream

Nothing can mend the big tear at the seams

Since creation, men sought independence

They sought independence from Providence

They waved their puny fists in insolence

They rejected God’s rule in defiance

So God gave to them the freedom they craved

Instead of finding joy, they were enslaved

Their pathway to spiritual death they paved

But God paved a way for them to be saved

Jesus came as a ransom for sinners

On the cross, He saved us from sin’s fetters

His death reconciled us to the Father

Freedom from sin – the joy of believers

Have you found the freedom you’re looking for?

Has rejecting God left you wanting more?

Jesus says, “Trust me, for I am the door”

In Christ is where true freedom is in store

Points for Reflection:

Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.”

(John 18:36 ESV)

·         Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world. His kingdom is one that lasts for eternity, unlike the other fleeting kingdoms of this world.

·         Jesus is the King of this eternal kingdom. Unlike rulers of the world who are imperfect (even the noblest of rulers are not perfect) and who disappoint us, Jesus is the perfect Ruler. He is One who humbled Himself and laid down His life to save His people. Never in this world will we ever find a King more loving, more sacrificial and perfectly divine.

·         Those who trust in Christ are given an everlasting citizenship in heaven. It is a citizenship that costs us nothing but cost Jesus Christ everything. We have been ushered into God’s wonderful kingdom with Christ as our loving, divine and perfect King.

·         Although the Bible tells us to respect and submit to human authorities, we must always remember that our ultimate allegiance should be given to God alone (Romans 13:1-7). It is God who has placed those authorities over us and no matter how powerful they may appear to be, it is comforting to know that they are ultimately under the divine authority of God. Ruthless and repressive rulers will not escape God’s judgment although they may escape earthly judicial judgments.

·         Are you putting your hope on human rulers or Jesus Christ? Have you been disappointed by earthly rulers? Are you placing your trust in kingdoms and ambitions you have built with your own hands? Is your focus on the kingdoms of this world or God’s eternal kingdom in heaven?

·         True independence and freedom are found in Jesus Christ. The very Ruler we have rejected is the One who has set us free from our sins. Have you pledged allegiance to Christ and celebrated your independence in Him?