"Freedom Isn't Free! It Comes at a Great Cost."

At the sound of these words over the phone, I choked up. I called this military chaplain to interview him for an upcoming article but immediately became overwhelmed at the phrase he spoke when I mentioned how the article would be centered around life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Those beautiful words were a promise made by men with a dream. Those same men wrote The Declaration of Independence and desired to inspire others to join the fight for freedom. Secret meetings were held knowing they could be killed for the fight for democracy.

Today, America celebrates 250 years of independence from Great Britain because of the men mentioned above and the women who supported them. But they were never alone in the fight for democracy. God carried them all the way.

As we celebrate this 4th of July, flags will be unfurled and waved proudly in the air. When you see our nation's flag, I challenge you to thank God for the freedoms we have in America. Yes, we are still free!

When you look up and spot those 13 red/white stripes, praise God for the 13 colonies who banded together to pursue freedom for future generations. Remember, the red stands for valor and bravery and white stands for purity and innocence. Don't forget Old Glory Blue.

The Old Glory Blue background is centered around 50 stars which represent the states that make up this great nation, and stands for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. When you see the flag raised high, sing along with The Star Spangled Banner.

I sing our national anthem proudly with my hand over my heart, and then I cry.

My tears stem from pure joy, not only for our nation but for the God who founded this land. When I think of God and how He gave, He GAVE His one and only Son to give us eternal life, one cannot help but become emotional.

Jesus loved us so much that He died on the cross for our sins. In John 15:13, Jesus spoke to His disciples and said, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for His friends. Freedom isn't free. The price Jesus paid for our sin-debt came at a very high cost.

Many men sacrificed their lives and died to keep our country free, but Jesus paid the ultimate price. Jesus arose victoriously from the grave and overcame death. He is coming again soon, and I pray you have accepted His gift of salvation so you can experience eternal freedom.

If you have questions about accepting Christ as your Savior, please reach out to me.

(Source: USAGOV)