To be liberated means freedom from bondage. Nelson
Mandela, the South African statesman, knew what it meant to be liberated. He
spent twenty-five years in prison on charges that were political. I’m sure
there were days when discouragement ruled, but deep within himself resided hope
which served as a bridge to keep despair at bay.
Bondage can originate from a crippling disease,
financial obligations, lack of employment or an oppressive relationship. Liberation
is the bridge that crosses the expanse of bondage, from whatever its source.
Listen to
Dag Hammarskjold, former Secretary General of the United Nations, as he stated
clearly what we can do for others and ourselves: “The price you must pay for
your own liberation through another’s sacrifice is that you, in turn, must be
willing to liberate in the same way, irrespective of the consequence to
yourself.” What a challenge! We gladly accept what Christ did to liberate us,
but we must be willing to offer that bridge to others so they can come across.
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