At our house, the 4th of July is known as “Firework Day”. It was coined by our boys before they were old enough to understand the meaning of a birthday for a country. They have since learned what Independence Day is all about, but the name “Firework Day” has stuck. We’ve spent lots of time talking about why it’s a special day. It’s SO special that people all over America shoot fireworks into the night sky to celebrate. While it is clear that many people use the holiday to satisfy their desire to blow things up, there are thoughts for the Christ followers to embrace from this day.
Fireworks are loud, shocking, and impossible to ignore. In fact, some were going off this afternoon right outside my front door, and it woke me from a dead sleep. The sounds remind me of gunfire, and consequently, what soldiers hear during battle. Sure, we would all prefer the silence over fierce blasts, but God did not promise us a life of ease and quiet. In this midst of the battles of life, we need to remember that we are already on the winning side. God is fighting with us and for us, and there is good reason to take up our daily armor:
“In this world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Fireworks need fire to work (sorry for the tiny pun). They are no good unless you have a flame to ignite them. Heat makes them come alive, just as it does in our Christian walk. When life is hard, God wants us to use it to spark our love and our faith in Him. Instead of letting the fires burn us, let us use them to fan into flame the gift of God:
“Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord.” Romans 12:11
Fireworks are bright and glorious to watch in action. We will stare for hours into the sky to watch the different colors and shapes burst into the darkness. In our neighborhood, we are constantly turning in circles to see the fireworks going off in all directions. “Did you see that one?! Look at THAT one! Whoa! WOW!” There’s something universally amazing about seeing sparks of light. Jesus knew this truth, and He knew His followers would change the world if they, too, acted like fireworks.
“In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
And to top off your Firework Day, remember the freedom and independence we have in Christ. We live in a free country where we are allowed to speak of His love and His grace, so don’t let this day pass by without telling someone of the ultimate freedom we have – freedom from death.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
Enjoy this great song by Third Day, Soul on Fire as you light your fireworks!!
INTERTWINED 