Freedom Train

Originally scheduled for January 11

It sits in the old veteran’s drawer. It’s a bigger than life, cowboy sized belt buckle. Prominent on the front of the buckle is a picture of a steam locomotive and train. It’s not just any steam locomotive. It is the bicentennial Freedom Train. Someday it will go to one of his grandsons, but for today it’s still in his possession.
 
He got it in 1975, a turbulent time in American politics. His affection for steam trains didn’t hurt the purchase decision very much either, but the primary meaning was to satisfy his patriotism with a display. At the time, it said clearly, “here is an American patriot.” Every time he looks at it, he remembers that train in the history of presented. Things like the original Declaration of Independence and 500 other objects which presented that which is good about America.
 
Why did he buy this, and keep it?
·         One reason is simply to show that he was there (and he likes to talk about it.)
·         Much more a matter of philosophy then politics, it shows which side he is on. It’s not a matter of being a Democrat or a Republican. It’s the difference between being a patriot and a cynic.
·         In a very sincere way, it tells you what he thinks is important.
Communion shares many of these attributes in feelings. Think about your own feelings regarding communion when you first accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. You saw the importance of doing it; you are mainly concerned that you were going to do it correctly. As you mature as a Christian, that feeling goes away and is replaced by the calm assurance that you are doing what your Lord told you to do. But whether you are a new Christian or someone who has been a question for many years, it still carries with it the meaning that tells the world just whose side you are on. For an communion you proclaim that the bread represents his body, hung on a cross for your sins and salvation. You tell the world in the cup that his blood was shed for us, for without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin.
So, as you partake today, do so in a solemn and serious manner befitting the respect which is owed to Christ for his sacrifice and atonement. Do so with appreciation for what he has done and what he continues to do in your life. Do it as one who has dedicated his life to Christ, even until he returns.