If we are willing to give up our freedom to get something or prevent something, Satan, who specializes in enslaving us (see Heb 2:15), will probably oblige us. If we and our freedom can be bought, he will "buy us out" of freedom. If we can be intimidated and manipulated, Satan, who enslaves through fear, will be willing to play the games by which we surrender our freedom. Consequently, to prevent Satan from robbing us of our freedom, we must accept the grace to continually make the statement: Our freedom is "not for sale." We must also resolve to die if necessary to keep our freedom in Christ. Isn't that what every martyr says in dying for Christ?

We are so zealous about being free because freedom is the basis of love. Because God is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16), the meaning of our lives in Christ is love. Therefore, we cherish our freedom by which we can live the life of love. We love because Jesus first loved us and freed us (1 Jn 4:19). Because we live in freedom, we can live in love. Be free and remain free to love.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, December 29, 2002

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 31, 2002