PJ's Corner

I’m sure the “Freedom Writers” movie that we watched last week is still fresh in your minds. Personally, I have benefited from it as I was able to glean some significant themes that somehow reflect what Jesus teaches. One obvious example is the theme on FREEDOM.

I remember the scene where Ms. G was asking the students something like this: “Do you think life would be a lot better for you if the people you don’t like or people who don’t share your values, ideals, color or culture, were out of your sight? “ Some students nod in agreement.

But Ms. G found something that her students really need to break free from. It was not freedom from people they hate or don’t like. Or freedom from circumstances which they thought they have fallen victims of. But it is the freedom from their own selves – a self that is enwrapped with selfishness, self-centeredness, hatred, passive indifference or even active rebellion against someone or against what is true or right or good. Ms. G did all what it takes so her students will be able to deal squarely with their own struggles, make sense out of it, and to step out of their fearful selves and care for others.

Well, that’s exactly why Jesus came.Jesus Christ did all what it takes, even death on the cross, to pay the ransom so we can be free from our slavery to self and sin and be free to be what God really meant us to be – to be like Christ so we can love and care for others as He did. Do you think that’s hard? Remember what Jesus said: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed!” (John 8:36).

As the students got to know Ms. G more and experience her sincere acts of love for them, they slowly began to change. They began to write their journals and reflect on their fears, their struggles, their pain. They began to realize that life is “NOT JUST ABOUT ME” Life is much bigger than themselves.

The same is true as we get to know more of our Lord Jesus Christ – that life is much bigger than we think. As we get to know and get closer to Him, Jesus transforms our character into His character so we will have the courage and ability to love, respect and care for others. That’s the only way our life will make sense. That’s freedom.

Though our lives may not reflect what the actors portray in that movie, we have this tendency to just remain in our own cocoons of comfort because it is safe, secure and comfortable. You see, living in freedom with Christ may involve sacrifices of making ourselves uncomfortable to make others comfortable. It can be small steps. Like taking time to talk with someone we still don’t know at Gideon or welcoming a newcomer before our fellowship starts. Or helping someone with his or her homework. Or praying for someone and letting him or her know that you do. Or stepping out to serve and share what we are gifted at.

With God’s help there is a vast horizon of opportunities to express our care and love for others. Remember Ms. G. Remember the old lady who helped Anne Frank. Remember our Lord Jesus Christ. He is our ultimate example who did all what it takes to set us free. He can also equip you to help others find their freedom.