Woo hoo! July 4th with all its festivities and food. And it’s looking to be a great weekend weather-wise.
For Americans, July 4th is, of course, Independence Day—a celebration (and reminder) of our freedom—a freedom that has always set America apart from other nations. But ironically that freedom is fast slipping away . . .
In the name of political correctness, freedom of speech is being fast compromised. It seems that everyone has a right to express their philosophy, claim their “rights”—but when it comes to Christians, that right is restricted. You only have to watch the news. Christians arrested for sharing their faith in Dearborn, Michigan.
Even here in San Diego, freedom of expression is given to minority groups while Christians have to tread on eggshells for fear of upsetting the political cart.
(Remember Miss California, Carrie Prejean’s story—seemingly nubbed for having giving her opinion in answer to a question on gay marriage? Read it here.)
How can kids make wise choices. Many universities, such as San Diego State University insist on coed housing with little freedom to choose otherwise.
Choices are narrowing. Rapidly!
Still, we can’t complain. America is still the land of the free compared to most of the world. So, let’s enjoy it. Here’s a few ways how:
Find out what's on in San Diego this weekend and hop into the action. For example, there is ample option to picnic and enjoy the scenes and beaches.
For those who want to hang with God’s people, many churches have organized July 4th activities.
Horizon Christian Fellowship have organized a picnic. Bring your goodies and kiddies and enjoy the fun. Or hang out with the crowd at North Coast Calvary Chapel for their Freedom Fest and watch the fireworks from the property.
If you live in Vista or Oceanside, then you might want to check out the services at North Coast Church in their brand new property which opened last weekend.
North Coast Church is known for its diverse venues, which have a double-fold focus. They accommodate the huge crowds so the church doesn’t feel like a mega church. And they allow people to choose their worship setting and music style—in a way that enable them to best benefit from the preaching of God’s Word.
One venue, “Live,” features live preaching with live, contemporary music. In all the other venues, the sermon is fed through the video feed (thus each venue hears the same message) and live music is performed by a talented band.
The Edge, another of North Coast’s venues, draws mostly (but not exclusively) a younger crowd—or at least those who enjoy worshiping via louder, rockier worship music. In contrast, the Traditions (in the Chapel) features more traditional music for more traditional folk. Each venue lifts up the Christ of the Bible.
Whatever you decide to do this July 4th, take time to reflect on what real freedom means. “You shall know the truth, and it shall set you free” (John 8:32).
Janey L. DeMeo, M.A.
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