Freedom

In the UK today a referendum is being held. At present, the UK uses the 'first past the post' system to elect MPs to the House of Commons. What we are being asked today is: should the 'alternative vote' system be used instead?

I'm not going to get into any for or against discussion, but simply to reflect upon the freedom we have in this country - freedom to have our say, whether or not we exercise that freedom by voting - we have the right to choose.

It got me thinking about freedom in a wider sense, conscious of the fact that for many Christians throughout the world there is a lack of freedom - a lack of freedom to speak openly about their faith, with the threat of persecution.

If, like me, you are blessed enough to live in a peaceful part of the globe, please pause and thank God today for our freedom - and if you are not in that position then I pray that you will be given the strength and courage to maintain your faith in difficult circumstances.

True freedom, of course, is ours only if we put our trust in Jesus as our Saviour and Lord. Jesus said: 'So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.' (John 8:36) We can enjoy that freedom regardless of our physical or geographical state. I am enjoying that freedom - are you?