Among several things my hometown is known for, Galveston, Texas, is also the birthplace of Juneteenth. On June 19, 1865, the news finally arrived that enslaved people in Texas were free. Now, freedom had been declared more than two years before, but many had not yet heard the announcement. When I moved away from the city, I was surprised to learn it wasn't a big deal in the other places I lived. Most people hadn't even heard of the holiday.
I couldn't help but remember that while reading Acts 5 today. The passage shows us the power of God that comes through announcements.
The apostles had been arrested for preaching about Jesus. The religious authorities thought they could silence the gospel by locking its messengers in prison. But during the night, an angel opened the doors and set them free. Then came a surprising command: "Go, stand, and tell."
God did not open the prison doors just so the apostles could admire their freedom. With their freedom came the charge to continue proclaiming freedom to others.
Doesn't that sound a little like Juneteenth? The announcement in Galveston changed lives because someone carried the message to them. People finally heard that what had already been declared was now theirs to have.
Likewise, the church has been entrusted with a similar task. We are a freedom-proclaiming people. We announce that Christ is risen, sin is forgiven, hope is available, and new life is possible. We tell people that fear, shame, hatred, and despair do not lord over us.
Every Juneteenth reminds us that freedom must be proclaimed. Every Christian reminds us that freedom has a name, Jesus.
Like those first disciples, may we hear God's command to go, stand, and speak. There are still people waiting to hear the good news.
Stay blessed...john
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