The Price of Freedom

Today I was with a man who had to have part of his foot amputated due to an infection.  As I spent time with this man I could not help but think of Jesus’ words concerning amputation. Even with today’s advanced technology not every infection can be cured without amputation.

 

The decision to amputate a patient’s limb due to infection is only made after there has been repeated treatment with antibiotics to treat the source of the infection. The doctors only decide to take a limb when they determine it is in the best interest of the patients body to be separated from an infectious source.  

 

Many times in our life God has to prune us as a tree to ensure that we grow up strong and healthy. This principle really hit home as I spent time contemplating what it would be like to lose a limb or a portion of a limb. The scripture is clear that we should bear fruit that remains. The cost of fruitfulness is sacrifice.

 

Biblically speaking less is more, it cost God allowing the Branch to be cut off from fellowship with the Father while on the cross so I could live. I am so thankful to be grafted into the Vine. Oh that we would not literally cut off our members but spiritually mortify the deeds of the flesh that we might honor the one who was cut off for us.

 

Mark 9:45-46

  And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:  46  Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

 

 

 

A New Addition

Amy and I are fired up today. My sister in law, Beth Jeffries delivered her first baby last night at NKC hospital. This is a special event in their life as they have been struggling with infertility for years and did not expect this bundle of joy at all! God is good! He is all about grace! We don’t deserve anything we get, yet he gives us everything. I am so thankful for the goodness of God. Our flesh is so selfish but our God is so selfless! He is all about giving and receiving! Today I am giving him praise for His mighty works!

 

For those wondering, here are the stats:

Adleigh Jobeth Jeffries

6lbs. 9oz.

 

Psalms 145:3-5

  Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.  4  One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.  5  I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works.