“For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin — because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” — Romans 6:6-7
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On the evening of July 31, 1831, slaves in Jamaica had a unique funeral. The next day, all slaves would be set free — it was their emancipation day. So the night before, they dug a large hole and threw their shackles and chains inside a coffin, closed it, and then buried it. This symbolized that they were no longer slaves. They were never going back.
In Romans 6:6, we learn that the moment we place our faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior, our old sinful self was crucified and buried with Christ. We are no longer slaves to sin. Now at this point, we should be shouting, “Hallelujah!” In Christ, we have been delivered from both the power and penalty of sin. Sin is no longer our master, and we are no longer separated from God because of our sin. Hallelujah!
Now imagine if some of those slaves in Jamaica went back to the graveyard on Aug. 2, 1831, dug up that coffin, took out the shackles and chains, and then placed themselves back in slavery. That would be absurd! Sadly, so many Christians seem to do just that. By excusing or justifying their sin, they are basically saying, “I’m a slave to sin. Sin is my master.”
Today, pray that the Holy Spirit will empower you to walk in the freedom you have in Christ.
— Ikki Soma, Houston Rockets chaplain
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