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When you Have Been Set Free

               Ontario was established in 1849 as a home for former African American slaves who had found freedom thanks to the Underground Railroad.
                If you visit Buxton, you will see a large bell that was housed in the community’s church building. Whenever a new family arrived in town, the bell was rung in joyous celebration.  Everyone would come in from the fields, welcome the new family and commit to helping them becoming established in their new homeland.  The bell was also rung every morning and every night to remind the community to stop and remember those who were still in slavery.
                Everyone in Buxton understood what it was to be a slave.  They also knew the courage that it took to make the journey north.  Most of all, they understood how valuable their new life was and because of that they were eager to help others who were starting over.
                Ideally, the same things should be true of the church.  It, too, is a community made up of former slaves, because we all were slaves to sin (John 8:34).  Thankfully, we, too, have been set free and have been given a second chance.  As Paul says, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:1-2).  The church should be a place of welcome, help and celebration because we all understand the joy of a new beginning. 
                I do not know what kinds of experiences you have had with the church, but I want you to know this:  You are welcome here!  You do not have to be perfect to come here.  In fact, those who meet here do so because we realize that we are not perfect.  If you want to seek God and his will for your life, we will celebrate with you and we will commit to helping you find the new hope, new joy, new peace and new life that we all need.
                After all, when you have been set free, it is only natural to share with others.

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