True Freedom

Who doesn't long for freedom? Yet freedom can be such a foreign concept because we may think that we have freedom when we are actually trapped. On the other hand, when we feel that we are trapped, that will probably be the time that we have freedom. Maybe, this sounds like an oxymoron but the existence of oxymorons attest to the fact that sometimes it is perhaps only through oxymorons that life can be understood. Amazingly, if you haven't realised yet, similarly the bible is full of oxymorons because Jesus called us to bless those who persecute us. Most of us may think that this advice is a little illogical because it is just so easy to love those who love you and to hate those who hate you. People always say "An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth". I would like to ask: How many really understand the meaning of this phrase? Many think that it means we should do the same unto others as they have done to us. This is the common perception but should it be the only perception? How about if i add these additonal words to this common phrase: A (good) eye for a (bad) eye, a (good) tooth for a (bad) tooth? As my pastor always say: word is not perception, perception is not word. This means that people often assume their own take on words spoken by others. This is a natural human tendency, which is to see things from a personal perspective. Everyone does it whether consciously or unconsciously. Thus, you can actually choose to see things from a good or bad viewpoint. And the amazing thing is that you are in control of that viewpoint, you can choose to see things from a good perspective. When you feel trapped, when you feel that you are being victimised, when you feel persecuted and being in a situation that you think you have no control over, that is precisely the moment when you are truly free because no one has the power to rob you of your own opinion. They may try to influence you, persuade you, force you but it is still up to you. So, back to the phrase : A (good) eye for a (bad) eye, a (good) tooth for a (bad) tooth, when you actually choose to see it this way, then you can understand what Jesus meant when He told us to bless those who persecute us. I admit this is not easy but things that are of true value and worth keeping are seldom easy. So, next time you feel trapped, why don't you think about how free you actually are because you have the true freedom (through God's word and empowerment) to choose a different way of reacting and show that you are different from the rest, truly unique :)

(By the way, think about the picture of the babies: are they drowning or having fun? they may look like they are trapped in a dangerous situation but then again, why do they look so carefree?)

(The above represent the author's personal views only)