We are no longer slaves to death.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.”
Galatians 4:7 New Living Translation

Walking the grounds of the Drayton Hall Plantation in Charleston, South Carolina comes with a mixed bag of emotions.

Drayton Hall, Charleston, South Carolina

The structure, finished in 1742, is a beautiful example of Georgian-Palladian architecture. Caretakers have done an excellent job of preserving this house and exercised great restraint in modernizing it. In other words, there are no electrical outlets and no air conditioners found in the building.

However, I became well aware that Drayton Hall was also a plantation that depended on both African-American and Native American slaves. This picture is from the Drayton Hall basement which these slaves used as their workroom.

This open window is a symbol of the power and freedom of the open tomb.

Because of Jesus’ resurrection you and I are no longer slaves to death. He has opened the door and revealed to us the light of his victory over death.

Our identity is no longer found in those things that enslaved us. God has declared us to be his daughters and sons. Your slavery to failure, successes and sin no longer makes you who you are. It is God who calls you his child.

Let the light shine! Jesus is risen indeed!

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, CO