You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. (Galatians 5:13)

     There are many beautiful things about scripture, but one that I find fascinating is the fact that it is living. It is transformative and active in our souls. It may take different forms and meanings as it speaks to the reader. Recently I ventured into nature, a place I can easily surrender to the Lord, and spent the night by an alpine lake. A gentle rumble of water filled my mind, nature so peaceful, beautiful and divine. The clouds took form as they gently passed by. The rain looked like static on the water, the trees enclosing the lake acted as an umbrella sheltering me. As the sky lulled like tumbling rocks, I lay in awe of the powerful beauty. Each cry of thunder spoke louder of His glory, and with each one I began to praise Him more.

     In an attempt to guide my running mind, I opened my Bible and found myself at Galatians 5:13 inspiring my new train of thought. What does Paul mean, saying that we are free? Freedom can be interpreted many ways all depending on the one that is enslaved. Many people are captured by their thoughts. Many seek freedom to be themselves, freedom from mental illness, physical illness, freedom to believe and worship God, freedom from other’s judgment, or from having to feel worthy. Within God, we can find refuge. He saves us persistently. Above all, we are freed from sin. No longer being bound by sin, we should not fall back into the arms of Satan, but overcome the shallow emptiness of pleasing the flesh and take hold of Jesus’ gift. We are called now to serve others with this newfound freedom. We are to live in reflection to God. He has presented an opportunity to become fully alive by living through His example. 

     But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5: 22-23) 

     I am still learning and discovering this freedom that is fulfilled within Jesus. I pray that my soul can display God's beauty and produce peace, joy and love. With only a month left until launching, I am becoming more eager to serve people across the world, hopefully achieving my goals along the way.