John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, once close friends, became bitter enemies over political differences. Their estrangement troubled those around them. In 1809, a mutual friend encouraged them to reconcile, and they hesitantly exchanged short, sincere letters acknowledging mistakes and committing to resume corresponding. Their renewed friendship was marked by deep mutual respect and lasted until their deaths. Adams and Jefferson died on the same day, July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after they signed the Declaration of Independence, with a relationship healed and whole.
Galatians 5:1 teaches, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” As a church, we gather as witnesses to the freedom found in forgiveness. As Christians we are called to seek and offer forgiveness. As Independence Day comes to the nation, examine your hearts, mend broken relationships and exercise the freedom Christ offers by grace through the Holy Spirit. This is how we will strengthen the bonds in our hurting families, our discouraged churches, and our broken world.
Grace and Peace,