July 5, 2010
 
DEVOTION: Freely Restricted
 
By Beth Bondurant
 
Celebrating today the flag that waves... "ore the land of the free... and the home of the brave". Listening to the music... hearing the words... watching the fantastic displays of color and creativity... and even having the freedom to set off fireworks at home reminds us we are most blessed.
 
Yet with all freedom... comes responsibility. To believe, trust and live the truth: "One nation... under God... indivisible with liberty and justice for all"... we are freely restricted.
 
It matters what we do in relationship to one another. Every tree in our yard effects all our surrounding neighbors... as it takes nourishment and sustenance for living.
 
Our power source may be efficient only when it is supported by the originating force.
 
We are "one" only as we perceive the meaning of being freely restricted.
 
"Follow me and I will make you fish for people... and immediately they left their nets and followed."
 
God's call is in relationship to others. "Love God with all your heart, mind, body, spirit and love your neighbor as you love yourself."
 
O God, forgive me that I am so caught up in what I want to do and forget that everything about my life is connected to the people around me... no matter where they live. Open my heart to hear the needs of others. Teach me your way that is able to perceive the truth in every circumstance. Give me the strength to look beyond myself and seek Shalom for all. Empower me with spiritual energy to reach out and touch the world with healing grace... and most of all I want to love you more so I can love all your children. I commit myself to being freely restricted in God's inclusive compassion.